Ex-Arsenal star almost unrecognisable as he shows off dramatic new look

In news that will have Bayer Leverkusen fans breathing a sigh of relief, the 32-year-old has made a swift change regarding his barnet instead of switching clubs.

Xhaka has become a cult hero since swapping Arsenal for the BayArena in the summer of 2023 - helping his side win their first Bundesliga title last season.

The Switzerland international also scored the only goal in the DFB-Pokal final - Leverkusen's first German Cup success in 31 years.

It's been another impressive campaign so far for Xhaka, who has chipped in with two goals and five assists from 15 league outings.

His seven goal contributions is already more than the six he mustered in all competitions last term as the midfielder continues to get better with age.

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Xhaka is currently on a well-earned skiing holiday back in his homeland with his family during the Bundesliga winter break before he reports back to training in the New Year.

And in a heartwarming picture he has shared to his 3.4 million Instagram followers, the Gunners fan favourite showed off his radical new look.

His former locks are now a thing of the past, with an almost unrecognisable Xhaka now sporting a buzz cut.

Sitting on the slopes at the Arosa Kulm Hotel and Alpin Spa in Switzerland, Xhaka posed for a picture alongside pregnant wife Leonita, and their two daughters, Ayana and Laneya.

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Captioning the post, he simply said: "Family Time is the Best Time."

The two-time FA Cup winner's fans were quick to comment on his new look, with one user quipping: "Xhaka buzz cut before GTA 6."

This person then messaged: "Just when he couldn't be more intimidating in midfield."

A third added: "They aren't ready for buzzed Xhaka."

One then joked: "Granit, what have you done?"

Meanwhile this user simply stated: "Machine."

Attention for Xhaka now will be on Leverkusen's return to action against Borussia Dortmund on January 10.

Leverkusen, who last took to the field against Freiburg on December 21, have won their last eight games in all competitions.

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