Granit Xhaka
Sunderland’s Robin Roefs and Granit Xhaka are gearing up for an exciting summer as they prepare to represent their respective countries, the Netherlands and Switzerland, at the upcoming World Cup. Both players have expressed their enthusiasm as they get ready to embark on their World Cup journeys.
Robin Roefs said: “It’s a huge thing for me and something I have dreamt of since I was a kid. I have watched so many games of the national team during the World Cup and the Euros in the past with my friends and family, so for me to be a part of it now is amazing.” Reflecting on his rapid ascent, he added: “It’s been a crazy 18 months for me. Everything has gone so quick and until recently, I would never have even thought about going to the World Cup. It was a really nice first season with Sunderland. I settled in really well and I was happy with the trust I got from everyone at the club and the supporters.”
Granit Xhaka said: “I’m very excited. It’s another tournament for myself and it’s always special to wear the shirt. Hopefully it’s a big tournament.” On his leadership role, Xhaka added: “It’s great to captain the team. There is a lot of responsibility and we’re really looking forward to it. We respect everyone in our group, but we have the quality to play a good tournament. We have many good players. Like Sunderland, we are a group who fights together and a family, and I hope we show this.”
Roefs, who will be making his debut as a senior international, is thrilled to be part of the North American tournament. His journey from NEC Nijmegen to Sunderland and now to the international stage has been swift and remarkable. His first season with Sunderland was a success, and he has quickly become a trusted figure at the club.
In contrast, Xhaka brings a wealth of experience to the Swiss national team. At 33, the Sunderland captain is seasoned in international competitions and is eager to lead Switzerland as they face Qatar in their opening match. His leadership and experience are expected to be invaluable assets for the team.
Sunderland’s representation at the World Cup extends beyond Roefs and Xhaka. Other players from the club participating in the tournament include Wilson Isidor (Haiti), Omar Alderete (Paraguay), Chemsdine Talbi (Morocco), Habib Diarra (Senegal), Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast), Nilson Angulo (Ecuador), and Noah Sadiki and Arthur Masuaku (DR Congo). This diverse participation underscores Sunderland’s global presence and the talent within its ranks.
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