Granit Xhaka couldn't contain his delight at thwarting Harry Kane's Bundesliga title dreams, following a stellar season with Bayer Leverkusen. Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen have soared to the top, remaining unbeaten and clinching the title well ahead of schedule.

Ex-Arsenal midfielder Xhaka has been instrumental since his move to Germany last summer, contributing significantly to Leverkusen's triumph. Post-victory, Xhaka shared that he's still in touch with his old Arsenal squad, saying, "There is still contact with Arsenal and the coaches and players. Of course, I got a lot of messages and I am proud to be part of this team."

When probed about whether stopping former Tottenham striker Kane - who also made a switch to the Bundesliga - from winning a trophy was an added bonus, Xhaka couldn't suppress a telling grin. "It's part of football," he said. "We know how much quality that Harry Kane has, he's doing very well at Bayern Munich as well."

"You get the message, but this has nothing to do with personalities. It's great to have the chance to play against great players. We were the happiest team to win the league."

Arsenal failed to further dampen the spirits of Kane, who is yet to win a trophy in his career, in the Champions League. Following a 2-2 draw at the Emirates, where Kane netted a penalty, the Gunners couldn't get past Manuel Neuer at the Allianz Arena, reports the Mirror.

Joshua Kimmich's second-half header was the winning moment in Wednesday night's quarter-final second leg, keeping Kane in the competition with a chance of securing a Champions League medal this season. Meanwhile, Xhaka is eyeing more success with Leverkusen.

The Bundesliga winners carry a two-goal lead to the London Stadium for their Europa League clash against West Ham United on Thursday. Late strikes from Jonas Hofmann and Victor Boniface have given Alonso's side a comfortable advantage as they land in England.

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