Sunderland have convinced the midfielder to remain on Wearside for the foreseeable future despite interest from Chelsea
Granit Xhaka has confirmed his decision to stay at Sunderland next season for the first time.
The 33-year-old has said that Sunderland has been home for him and his family since he arrived and that he is ready to ‘make history’ with the Black Cats.
Xhaka was the subject of significant interest from Chelsea earlier this summer, with the Black Cats rejecting an initial £8 million bid and making clear that they did not want to lose their star midfielder. Initially, Xhaka had been keen on the idea of a potential reunion with his former Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso but reaffirmed his commitment to Sunderland late last week after talks with the club hierarchy.
Xhaka informed Alonso of his decision over the weekend, with Chelsea accepting defeat in their pursuit. Sunderland hinted at Xhaka’s decision with a cheeky social media post referencing the ‘We’ve got Granit Xhaka’ song sung by supporters, which Xhaka shared himself on his social media channels. However, his comments mark the first time he has addressed the matter directly.
Interviewed by DAZN after Switzerland booked their place in the World Cup quarter finals following a penalty shootout win over Colombia, Xhaka said: "Sunderland has been my home since day one. We are all very happy. I decided to stay where I am; family is the most important thing. I am ready to make history with them."
Granit Xhaka on Switzerland’s historic win
Switzerland’s win means they have reached the quarter final of the World Cup for the first time since 1954, and will now face Argentina in the early hours of Monday morning for a place in the last four.
"It's incredible,” Xhaka said.
“We know what the World Cup means. We created this opportunity for ourselves. Many teams have lost on penalties. Today is a special day for all of us, it hasn't really sunk in yet.
“I keep getting better as time goes on. I have a wealth of experience—with my teammates, my coaches, and the support of my loved ones. All of that makes me happy."
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