Granit Xhaka shares what he demands from Sunderland after recent announcement
Granit Xhaka is set to play a crucial role for Sunderland in their battle against Premier League relegation.
Sunderland’s summer transfer business showed a clear statement of intent, though the signing of Xhaka took that to a whole new level.
The Bayer Leverkusen midfielder joined Sunderland on a three-year deal and has already impressed supporters with some of his displays in pre-season.
At 32 years old, the Swiss International possesses an immense amount of experience, and that is set to be put to the test after the latest announcement.
Xhaka will be the new Sunderland captain
Sunderland have already announced that Xhaka would be the captain for the Premier League campaign, though given his pedigree and experience, it came as a little surprise.
He will take over from Dan Neil, whose future at Sunderland is still up in the air, and has already shared what he expects from his teammates ahead of the new campaign.
| Granit Xhaka’s 2024/25 Bundesliga statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Touches | 94.5 |
| Accurate passes | 75.8 (91%) |
| Big chances created | 7 |
In an interview via Sunderland’s YouTube channel, he said: “To be part of Sunderland’s history, alongside some of the names who have worn the armband before, is an honour.
“People who know me know exactly what they’ll get – I’m someone who demands a lot. I’m a winner and I want to win – and I expect the same from my team-mates.”
Sunderland can learn a lot from Xhaka this season
Regardless of what the outcome is at the end of the season, some of the younger players on Wearside are going to see a massive improvement in their own game purely down to the influence of Xhaka.
He will lead on and off the pitch and provide an insight into the game that hasn’t been seen at the Stadium of Light for years.
Ten new arrivals have checked in alongside the 32-year-old, with several more expected before the window closes on 1 September.
Sunderland will almost certainly be in the market for another centre back, despite the recent arrival of Omar Alderete, with another attacking option also likely high up on their list of remaining transfer priorities.
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