Granit Xhaka
Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka has made an unexpected yet impactful start to his tenure at Sunderland. Appointed as captain by head coach Regis Le Bris upon his arrival, Xhaka has quickly become an integral part of the team, featuring in all three of Sunderland’s Premier League matches this season. Despite questions surrounding his decision to leave Bayer Leverkusen, a club offering Champions League football, for a newly promoted side likely facing a relegation battle, former footballer Stefan Effenberg has provided insights into Xhaka’s motivations.
Stefan Effenberg said: “Understandable from his [Xhaka’s] point of view. Sure, you’re going to a newly promoted Premier League team, but he achieved everything at Leverkusen, won the league, won the cup – that’s all you can do there. It was his dream to play in England again, and it’s probably worth it financially. Leverkusen also received a high transfer fee, so it’s a win-win situation for everyone.” Effenberg continued: “He has already revitalised the Bundesliga. Not only at Leverkusen, but also before that at Gladbach. Back then, he was already a true personality, a true leader.” When asked if he saw elements of his own game reflected in Xhaka’s, he added: “No, it’s the other way around. He plays a more defensive role than I used to and is the first option in the build-up play. I was a bit more attack-oriented and, statistically, more dangerous in front of goal.”
Effenberg’s comments highlight the strategic nature of Xhaka’s transfer, emphasizing the midfielder’s desire for a new challenge and the financial benefits for both player and club. Xhaka’s leadership qualities, previously showcased in the Bundesliga, are now being leveraged at Sunderland as he takes on a pivotal role in their Premier League campaign.
Granit Xhaka said: “Here, they live, breathe, and suffer for the sport. This passion is genuine… I will never regret this decision, no matter what happens.” Xhaka also added that he feels he is gaining “experiences for life”. He explained: “At 11pm, a Swiss number lit up on my phone. I was on my way to bed, the children were already asleep: ‘Hello, this is Kyril. I’m the owner of Sunderland.’ I went along with the game because I thought someone was playing a prank on me. My agent, José Noguera, was in America at the time – with the time difference. I gave Kyril my agent’s number. The conversation was clear, but brief. Then I realized: Things were getting serious.” When asked how he felt in the aftermath of that conversation with Louis-Dreyfus and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman, he responded: “You have to do this, Granit! And I feel that this experience here will give me the most for my future.”
Xhaka’s reflections on his move to Sunderland reveal a deep appreciation for the club’s passionate fanbase and the unique experiences he is gaining. The 32-year-old midfielder’s decision was influenced by the enthusiasm and commitment of Sunderland’s owner, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, who played a key role in convincing Xhaka to join the Black Cats. As Xhaka embarks on this new chapter, he remains optimistic about the personal and professional growth opportunities that lie ahead.
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