Xhaka’s Resurgence: Sunderland’s Key to Premier League Success

Granit Xhaka’s transfer to Sunderland last July raised eyebrows in the football community, but four months into the 2025-26 campaign, the decision is proving to be astute. The former Arsenal midfielder has been instrumental in the Black Cats’ impressive start, positioning the newly promoted team fourth in the Premier League table after 11 matches — just one point shy of the top three. Sunderland’s success is anchored by Xhaka’s composure and control in midfield, as he has both started and completed every league match under head coach Regis Le Bris.

The Swiss international has contributed one goal and three assists, but his impact transcends mere statistics. He leads the team in nearly every significant metric — from assists and chances created to successful passes, duels won, and distance covered — highlighting his indispensable role in the squad. As captain, Xhaka has instilled structure and stability in a youthful Sunderland side adapting to the top flight for the first time since 2017.

His performances have not only dispelled doubts regarding his ability to perform in the Premier League at 33, but they have also garnered widespread acclaim from pundits, including Premier League legend Wayne Rooney. On BBC’s The Wayne Rooney Show, Rooney expressed admiration for Xhaka’s influence, declaring him the standout signing of the season thus far. He remarked, “Coming back to the Premier League, you wonder if he can do it. Obviously, with a promoted team as well, coming up, what impact could he have? But he’s probably been the signing of the season. He has been brilliant.”

Rooney further praised Xhaka’s resilience, referencing his tumultuous years at Arsenal: “When he had the situation with Arsenal, when he fell out with the fans, it showed his character to go and play for Arsenal again. To get through that and then perform for Arsenal, and then at Leverkusen, to be part of a team that beat Bayern Munich to the title for the first time in over ten years demonstrates his quality.”

He also noted Xhaka’s off-field influence, particularly in a youthful Sunderland dressing room: “Sunderland has a very young squad as well. He acts almost like a father figure and will be a significant asset for the coach to bridge the gap as captain. With many new signings made in the summer, his experience will undoubtedly benefit the manager and the players.”

Xhaka’s narrative at Sunderland embodies one of the most compelling stories in the Premier League this season. Arriving in a reported £17 million deal from Bayer Leverkusen — where he contributed to the club’s first-ever Bundesliga title in 2024 — the Swiss international came to the North East with both experience and high expectations. Sunderland’s manager, Regis Le Bris, immediately appointed him captain, recognizing the leadership qualities that characterized his latter years at Arsenal and Leverkusen.

Since his debut, Xhaka has exemplified professionalism and tactical acumen, seamlessly integrating into Sunderland’s fluid 4-3-3 system. His calmness in possession, positional awareness, and vocal leadership have formed a solid foundation for the team’s compact defensive structure and disciplined build-up play. Statistically, his influence is unparalleled, ranking first in touches, chances created, and recoveries per game, underscoring his integral role in every aspect of Sunderland’s strategy.

The resurgence of Xhaka’s career is particularly remarkable given the scrutiny he faced during his tenure at Arsenal. Once seen as a contentious figure, he has matured into one of Europe’s most respected midfield generals. His experience at Leverkusen, where he regained his form under Xabi Alonso, has evidently transitioned to his new role, allowing Sunderland’s youthful lineup to thrive around him.

With Sunderland soaring in the Premier League, the focus now shifts to sustaining their momentum through the winter months. Following the international break, the Black Cats will face Fulham and Bournemouth, before confronting prominent teams like Liverpool and Manchester City. These matches, akin to their draw against Arsenal, will genuinely test Le Bris’ squad on whether they can maintain their early-season form and contend for European qualification this year.

Xhaka himself shows no signs of deceleration, consistently setting the tone both in training and on matchdays. His experience across top European leagues has provided Sunderland with a competitive advantage and a cohesive identity built on discipline and confidence, qualities that are echoed throughout their squad.