By Martin Graham
When Sunderland brought in 33-year-old Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen for £13m last summer, few could have imagined how smoothly things would click. The Swiss international has become the heartbeat of a newly promoted team now sitting in the Premier League’s top four.
His stunning long-range strike against Everton earned a valuable 1-1 draw and maintained Sunderland’s impressive position — a Champions League place a quarter into the season. Xhaka was later named man of the match for his commanding display.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher praised the midfielder before the game, calling him “the signing of the season.” After watching his performance, Carragher added that Xhaka looked “head and shoulders above almost anyone else on that pitch.”
Numbers showing his influence
Across most measurable areas, Xhaka has been leading by example. The captain’s consistency and technical quality have placed him among the league’s standout performers in multiple categories.
He has provided three assists — with only three Premier League players having created more — and ranks joint-11th in overall chances made. From set pieces, only two players have supplied more opportunities than Xhaka’s nine.
In terms of distribution, only Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi has completed more long passes (56) than Xhaka’s 52, though the Sunderland man has attempted far fewer. He also appears in the top 20 for total passes, entries into the box, and recoveries of possession.
Now, with his first Premier League goal since his Arsenal farewell in 2023, Xhaka’s all-round impact continues to grow.
Manager Regis Le Bris highlighted the midfielder’s influence, saying: “He’s crucial for us — we have many young and inexperienced players in this league. Granit’s presence, his mentality, and his ability to perform under pressure help everyone. He raises the standards every day.”
Former Sunderland defender Jonny Evans agreed, noting: “He’s the one everyone can turn to. His form and attitude have been outstanding.”
Redemption after his Arsenal years
Xhaka’s journey back to England has been anything but ordinary. After making nearly 300 appearances for Arsenal between 2016 and 2023, he left for Leverkusen, where he played a key role in their unbeaten Bundesliga title-winning season under Xabi Alonso.
Although Leverkusen wanted to keep him, Xhaka chose a new challenge in Sunderland, returning to the Premier League with a point to prove. Reflecting on the move, he said: “I didn’t expect to come back, but football surprises you. The project here made sense — to bring experience and help the younger players every day. I’m proud to score and contribute.”
At Arsenal, Xhaka’s career had turbulent moments. He was sent off several times, famously lost the captaincy after clashing with fans in 2019, and often divided opinion. Yet he rebuilt his reputation under Mikel Arteta before leaving for Germany.
Carragher remarked: “After what he went through at Arsenal, to come back and play like this shows great strength. If he helps Sunderland stay up or even finish mid-table, his name will be remembered for years.”
Calm authority replacing old temper
Former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini described Xhaka as the definition of a seasoned professional. “At Arsenal, he could be fiery and unpredictable,” Gabbiadini said on BBC Radio Newcastle. “Now he’s more controlled and mature — still competitive, but with greater balance.”
He added that Xhaka’s composure and leadership are vital in a youthful dressing room. “Everyone believes in him. He’s their talisman. They’ll want to keep him fit and playing every week because his presence changes the whole dynamic of the team.”
With Sunderland punching above their weight, Xhaka’s experience and measured aggression have become their foundation — proof that the so-called “villain” has turned into the club’s unlikely hero.
