Granit Xhaka’s journey from Arsenal to Sunderland has been nothing short of remarkable, showcasing a transformation in his career that has set him on a path to resurgence in the Premier League. Upon joining Sunderland, the 33-year-old has emerged as a pivotal figure, being described as a “second coach on the pitch” by Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris. This accolade highlights Xhaka’s influence, which has played a significant role in the Black Cats’ surprising start to the season, defying predictions that deemed them relegation certainties before the campaign began.
This weekend, Xhaka faces his former club Arsenal, and his evolution into the midfield stalwart they envisioned while he was there could not be more evident. Known for his defensive reliability, composure, and significant impact on the game, Xhaka has matured in ways that weren’t always recognized during his Arsenal tenure. Back then, he faced his fair share of scrutiny, being branded a scapegoat during challenging times, which included a notable falling out with fans and a tumultuous relationship with the club’s dynamics.
During his final season with the Gunners, Xhaka’s performances began to shine through, scoring nine goals and providing seven assists as Arsenal made a strong push for the title. Now, at Sunderland, he has solidified his role, excelling as a defensive anchor and showcasing his ability to read the game. His interception rate is the highest among midfielders in the league, surpassing several well-known competitors from more established teams.
Xhaka’s time at Bayer Leverkusen under the mentorship of Xabi Alonso has also shaped his current form, enriching his tactical understanding and approach. This season, he has not only anchored the defense but contributed offensively with a goal and three assists, with critical contributions that have added vital points to Sunderland’s standings. Noteworthy moments include his ability to salvage games, like the recent goal against Everton and pivotal assists against Brentford and Aston Villa.
Furthermore, Xhaka leads the Premier League in distance covered, illustrating his exceptional fitness and commitment, attributes that have also inspired his younger midfield partner, Noah Sadiki. Xhaka’s leadership has been impactful, as he emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards on and off the pitch. His willingness to address team performance and drive improvement reflects his growth as both a player and a leader.
Sunderland’s survival in the Premier League hinges on their ability to adapt, and Xhaka’s wealth of experience at the highest levels of football—alongside his versatile skill in set pieces—has proven invaluable. His role has propelled Sunderland to the top for xG from set pieces, outperforming even Arsenal’s statistics in that aspect, highlighting his ongoing relevance in the league.
As Xhaka steps onto the field against Arsenal, he not only embodies a different form of player than the one who left but has become a key part of Sunderland’s aspirations in the Premier League. His current form signifies that not only has he found a new lease on his footballing life, but he is also proving to be an indispensable asset for his team.