Xhaka, Wearside, and the Shock Return

Granit Xhaka's unlikely Sunderland switch sends tremors through the Premier League

In one of the more surprising moves of the summer, Granit Xhaka has signed for Sunderland on a three-year deal, marking a dramatic return to the Premier League after two seasons away. The 32-year-old joins the newly-promoted club from Bayer Leverkusen, where he played a central role in a historic Bundesliga title win and a Europa League final run. Now, he's swapping Champions League football for a different kind of challenge in red and white.

From Xabi to Stadium of Light

Xhaka’s exit from Leverkusen comes just a week after Erik ten Hag, newly in charge of the German champions, publicly insisted the Swiss midfielder was “too important to lose.” That only shows how determined Sunderland were to get their man. Reports suggest the fee was £17.3 million, a statement signing for a side returning to the Premier League after a long, hard slog through the lower divisions.

Leader in the Room

Speaking to the club, Xhaka made his intentions clear. “I’m very proud to be here,” he said. “I felt the energy, the mentality, it just felt right.” It’s a significant acquisition for Sunderland, both symbolically and practically. With 225 Premier League appearances for Arsenal and two FA Cups to his name, Xhaka arrives as both a seasoned anchor and a tone-setter in the dressing room.

No Free Passes

Sunderland, for their part, aren’t easing into their top-flight return quietly. Their first fixture will be a home match against West Ham United on August 16. With Xhaka now pulling the strings in midfield, expect a fiercer, more structured side.