Granit Xhaka hails Bayer Leverkusen’s historic title triumph as ‘special’… but insists newly-crowned Bundesliga champions are hungry for more as Xabi Alonso’s men eye an unprecedented unbeaten treble

Granit Xhaka described Bayer Leverkusen’s title win as ‘special’ but insisted his team-mates want more as they look to achieve an unprecedented unbeaten treble.

Leverkusen were crowned German champions for the first time in their history on Sunday, with Xhaka scoring the second goal in a 5-0 victory over Werder Bremen.

The former Arsenal midfielder joined Leverkusen in the summer and has been a key part of Xabi Alonso’s team.

The 31-year-old said becoming a German champion for the first time was a moment he had dreamed of but added that his team are now only focused on winning more silverware.

‘It’s difficult to find the right words [to sum up his emotions],’ Xhaka said. ‘To come back after my first season in the league is unbelievable.

Bayern Leverkusen won their first ever Bundesliga title in emphatic style on Sunday

‘We had a great season, a great game, not first half but second half we did well, and now we enjoy.

‘When you kick a ball at a young age, you dream of moments like this. It was hard work day by day, with everyone who was included in this club.

‘In my 14 years football career, it’s special for me, but even more special for this club. Now we want more, and to take the others one as well.’

Former Southampton defender Nathan Tella also joined Leverkusen in the summer and said he was happy with his progress after having to be patient for his first-team opportunities.

Nathan Tella says he’s happy with his progress after having to be patient for first-team opportunities

‘I’m with extremely talented players, coaching staff, and to win it in first season is incredible,’ Tella said.

‘Patience has been everything. I was frustrated with myself the first half of year, because I didn’t play. But Now I’ve been involved more, and I’ve had moments where I can be happy with.

‘Everyone has been so important this season. Everyone played a part. We’re still unbeaten as well which is another thing we want to tick off.’