Granit Xhaka
Granit Xhaka arrived at Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen in July 2025 and has been a key part of Régis Le Bris’ squad.
The manager immediately handed the 33-year-old the armband and he has been leading the Black Cats this season.
His impressive performances for Sunderland saw Juventus show interest in the midfielder. Last November, Sport Witness covered claims from Italy of the Serie A side contacting his entourage.
Juve quickly realised the Switzerland international was unlikely to leave his role at the Stadium of Light, and moved on.
The former Arsenal man also has an important role with the national team. He played 144 matches so far for his country since making his debut in 2011.
Sunderland player’s international future
Switzerland manager Murat Yakin talks about Sunderland star Granit Xhaka’s future after the World Cup.
Blue Win had a chat with the national team manager to discuss what the midfielder plans to do after the summer’s FIFA tournament.
When asked whether the World Cup will be Xhaka’s ‘last dance’ with Switzerland, he said: “No, absolutely not. I can’t imagine that. As long as he’s in this kind of health, he’ll play as long as possible.”
“I also know that he’ll be moving on after the World Cup. I’m happy about that. He always has to be fit and physically at his peak.”
Last month, the player missed the friendly draw against Norway due to an injury. At that time, Yakin explained the fitness issues with the Black Cats man.
That seems to have resolved considering Xhaka played the full 90 minutes in Sunderland’s 1-0 league win over Tottenham Hotspur last weekend.
Contract, value and stats
Granit Xhaka signed a contract with Sunderland until 2028 and although he has impressed on the pitch, his value, as per Transfermarkt, has dropped. It was €12m when he joined and is now lowered to €10m.
Xhaka has played 2,488 minutes from 30 matches for Sunderland so far, managing a goal and five assists.
His Premier League stats are as follows:
Appearances: 28
Starts: 26
Total minutes: 2,363
Minutes per game: 84