Wahbi Khazri
Wahbi Khazri, the former Sunderland midfielder, recently shared his experiences and memories from his time at the club, reflecting on his arrival during a challenging period and the club’s subsequent Premier League survival. In an interview with Sunderland’s official matchday programme, Khazri discussed key moments from his tenure, the impact of international football, and his thoughts on Sunderland’s return to the Premier League.
Wahbi Khazri said: “It is a big occasion for the players who have been chosen. It is an opportunity to play for your country in a major tournament. I also played against England in the World Cup in 2018, and that was another great experience.”
Khazri continued: “There was pressure because when we arrived, Sunderland were in 19th position. The first three games after I arrived were so important, but they were difficult. We played Manchester City at home, Liverpool away and Manchester United at home. We lost 1-0 to City, drew at Liverpool, and we won against United when I scored with a free-kick. After that, we went on and managed to stay up.”
He added: “They played a big part in improving the team, and they were very good players. For me, a big experience was the game against Everton. It was the last home game. Lamine Koné scored two goals, and we won 3-0. The result kept us up, but also put Newcastle United down. It was a fantastic experience, and the atmosphere was amazing.”
Khazri’s arrival at Sunderland during the winter transfer window proved pivotal as he, alongside Jan Kirchhoff and Lamine Koné, played crucial roles in transforming the team’s fortunes. The trio’s efforts were instrumental in securing the club’s Premier League status, highlighted by a memorable victory over Everton that ensured Sunderland’s survival and relegated rivals Newcastle United.
Khazri remarked: “Younes Kaboul and Yann M’Vila, especially. They were good players, and they did a lot to help me and the other new signings to settle in at the club. I am so happy because I have met up again with Jermain Defoe. He is a fantastic guy and a fantastic player. For me, he was the best striker in the Premier League. I think we can put his name with Thierry Henry and Wayne Rooney.”
Reflecting on his time under Sam Allardyce, Khazri stated: “When I was at Sunderland, Sam was unbelievable. He spoke to me and believed in me. He is a very good manager, people know how to get the best out of players. If you wanted one day, he would give you it, but on the pitch, you had to give him 100 per cent. He knows that, and he got it from everyone.”
Khazri also shared his views on the managerial changes during his stint, particularly the transition from Sam Allardyce to David Moyes, which marked a challenging period for him. Despite his efforts and performances, Khazri found himself sidelined, a decision he still finds puzzling.
Khazri reflected: “It was so difficult because the previous season, when we stayed in the Premier League, I said to myself that we would work hard and have a good season. David Moyes came in, and I still don’t understand why I didn’t play much. I thought I was training well and respected everyone. I remember a game against West Ham – I thought I had played well and I scored directly from a corner. I never knew why he didn’t want me on the pitch, but that’s football.”
Looking back, Khazri cherishes his time at Sunderland, where he realized his dream of playing in the Premier League. He remains a keen follower of the club, expressing joy at their return to the top flight and optimism for their future prospects.
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