A 2023/24 Bundesliga title winner has heaped praise on two African players who have brought a "lot of quality" to his side.
Bayer Leverkusen clinched the league for the first time in their history after thrashing Werder Bremen 5-0 on Sunday, with Nigeria stars Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella playing pivotal roles in the club's success this season.
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Boniface has netted 11 times and assisted eight goals in 18 games, while Tella scored on five occasions and assisted two strikes during his 20 appearances throughout the campaign to date, signalling a healthy contribution to the dominance displayed by Xabi Alonso's men in the German top flight.
With five matches still to be played, Die Werkself are unbeaten in the league after winning 25 matches and drawing just four times.
They are also in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League, leading West Ham United by two goals to nil on aggregate heading into the second leg, which will take place on Thursday.
Speaking to Soccernet.ng after securing the league title on Sunday, former Arsenal star Granit Xhaka shared the fond memories he has of the time he spent in Nigeria in 2009 for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, before going on to praise the abovementioned Nigerian duo.
"It's difficult to find the right words but I had a very good experience in Nigeria, won the U-17 World Cup there, defeating them in the final," the Switzerland midfielder said.
"Jokes aside, I say thanks for the support, it is always good to have worldwide support and we gave our best for the season.
"For Boni and Nathan, they're very good, very positive, always with a smile on their faces.
"With them, we have a lot of quality in the team, on and off the pitch, and it's so nice to be a part of them and the team.
"... I grew up with lots of African people. I love the culture, the mentality and how kind they are.
"Boni is a great guy, with a great family too. You can see the club and how special it is to have family enjoy every moment with us, you can't see that everywhere, and big respect to the family who are supporting us."
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