Mikel Arteta let him go at Arsenal, and now he has become a major challenge for Martin Zubimendi.
Granit Xhaka is proving that Mikel Arteta may have underestimated just how much he still has to offer at the top level of football. Back in July 2023, Arsenal sold the Switzerland international to Bayer Leverkusen for £21.4m after a rocky period in North London. During his time at the Emirates, Xhaka experienced highs and lows, even facing the frustration of his own supporters when he was booed off the pitch. At that time, it felt as though the Basel-born midfielder had played his final chapter in English football, especially after heading to the Bundesliga at the age of 30.
Fast forward a few years, and the 33-year-old has reignited his Premier League career with Sunderland in stunning fashion. Far from fading into the background, Xhaka has become a standout performer in his return to England. Now captaining the Black Cats under Regis Le Bris, he has immediately established himself as one of the most important figures in the squad, tallying three assists in just six appearances. His influence has helped Sunderland climb to fifth place in the Premier League, turning the team into one of the surprise packages of the season.
Such form has not gone unnoticed. Xhaka is firmly in the race for the Player of the Month award, going head-to-head with the likes of Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi. His resurgence highlights the importance of fresh challenges in a player’s career, proving that experience and resilience can often shine brightest in a new environment.
When Arsenal parted ways with Xhaka, Arteta offered glowing praise, calling him a “fantastic player and person” who had given everything for the club. He underlined the leadership, influence, and respect Xhaka commanded among teammates and staff alike. Those very qualities have become just as evident at Sunderland, where he has quickly earned the trust of both teammates and supporters.
Now, Xhaka’s journey has come full circle—once written off by many, he is once again shining in the Premier League. His story serves as proof that with determination and the right setting, a player can defy expectations and continue to thrive at the highest level of football.
