Former Arsenal Midfielder Granit Xhaka Joins Sunderland, Embraces Premier League Challenge

Granit Xhaka has explained his decision to leave Bayer Leverkusen and join Sunderland, emphasizing his desire to experience the challenges of a club fighting relegation as part of his preparation for a future coaching career. Despite Leverkusen's recent Bundesliga success, Xhaka was drawn to Sunderland's story of rising from scratch, likening it to his parents' beginnings and valuing the solidarity and suffering he expects to face there. He denied any issues with Leverkusen's new manager Erik ten Hag, clarifying that their relationship was positive and that his move was based on finding the right fit for himself and his family. Sunderland's owner, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, played a key role in persuading Xhaka, making him feel genuinely wanted, which influenced his decision. Since joining, Xhaka has been named Sunderland's captain and has already made a strong impact, highlighting the passionate atmosphere and connection with the fans as some of the best moments in his career. Overall, Xhaka views this move as a critical life experience that will shape him both as a player and future coach.