Granit Xhaka boosted Bayer Leverkusen’s Bundesliga title chances by scoring his first goal for the club in stunning fashion.
The midfielder signed for Xabi Alonso’s side in the summer following a seven-year stint at Premier League giants Arsenal.
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Xhaka took aim from distance early on for LeverkusenCredit: @SkyFootball X
He has played a key role in Leverkusen’s success this season as they eye up their first ever Bundesliga title.
And in their latest match on their quest for glory, it took him just three minutes to break the deadlock in a crucial 2-1 win.
Positioned on the edge of the box, Xhaka hit a first-time effort with his left foot and saw it fly into the top right corner.
It’s the first goal he has scored for Leverkusen since his arrival in July, with the Swiss international finding the back of the net in his 31st appearance.
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Before his celebration, Xhaka held the back of his leg as if he had an injured hamstring before soon revealing he was faking it.
Leverkusen medical staff appeared ready to run on and treat him but Alonso pulled them back when he realised he was joking.
Mainz equalised just four minutes later through a Dominik Kohr header but the hosts won the match in the second-half as Robin Zentner spilled Robert Andrich’s strike.
Leverkusen now sit 11 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga table after 23 games played.
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Xhaka’s effort found the back of the net in some styleCredit: AFP
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He was then seen holding his hamstring as if he was injured before celebratingCredit: @SkyFootball X
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Alonso was able to see the funny side of it despite him probably being worried at firstCredit: @SkyFootball X
Bayern Munich and Xhaka’s former Tottenham rival Harry Kane are chasing them in what has been an underwhelming campaign.
Leverkusen recently beat them 3-0 to gain a commanding lead at the top, with Alonso’s side still unbeaten in the German top-flight.
They appear to be the favourites to go all the way this season, although they and Bayern could both be set for new managers in the summer.
Alonso has been linked with the Liverpool job amid Jurgen Klopp’s pending departure, and Thomas Tuchel will leave Bayern at the end of the season.
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