"Granit Xhaka's Celebration Decoded: What His Gesture Means After Scoring for Switzerland at the World Cup"

GRANIT XHAKA hit back at claims he is TOXIC by making a shock gesture while celebrating his goal in Switzerland’s win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The Sunderland skipper, 33, converted from the penalty spot as his side in Los Angeles.

And Xhaka was spotted mimicking a talking motion with his hand after to wrap up Switzerland’s first win in Group B.

It is thought the midfielder’s celebration is in response to shock accusations he has created a “toxic” and “negative” team environment within the camp.

Xhaka slammed the performance after Switzerland conceded a last-gasp equaliser during their last week.

During a post-match interview, the former Arsenal man said: “You can talk. We have to act.”

And Bild reported earlier this week the outburst did not go down well among his team-mates.

It is suggested Xhaka’s comments left several influential people in the Swiss camp “unnerved and uncomfortable”.

Some team-mates even felt he was toxic for speaking out following the early setback.

But Switzerland moved to within touching distance of booking their place in the knockout stages after some late drama against Bosnia.

Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, fresh from against Aston Villa last month, netted just two minutes and 46 seconds after coming off the bench with a stunning acrobatic volley.

Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic was then sent off for denying Breel Embolo the chance to scamper clear.

Ruben Vargas doubled Switzerland’s lead before Manzambi completed his brace.

Ermin Mahmic bagged a consolation for Bosnia, only for Xhaka – who is off the pitch – to net with the last kick of the game.

Switzerland will be looking to top Group B when they face World Cup co-hosts Canada next week.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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