Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka says he was drawn to Sunderland by the club’s “energy and mentality” after completing a surprise return to the Premier League from Bayer Leverkusen.
The 32-year-old Switzerland international was unveiled as the Black Cats’ marquee summer signing on Tuesday, bringing a wealth of experience to the Stadium of Light ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Xhaka spent seven years at Arsenal before departing in 2023 for the Bundesliga, where he played a pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic domestic double last season — helping the club to its first-ever league title and a German Cup triumph under Xabi Alonso.
The veteran midfielder, who has earned 137 caps for Switzerland and captained the national team at Euro 2024, described Sunderland’s ambition as a major factor in his decision to sign.
“I’m very proud to be here,” Xhaka said in his first interview as a Sunderland player. “When I spoke to the club, I was excited and I felt the energy and the mentality that all the people and players have.”
“It’s exactly what I wanted, and I have a very good feeling. We are back to where this club needs to be, and we want to stay here to write our own history. I feel that I’m ready to help the team with my experience — but with quality as well.”
Xhaka, known for his leadership, composure on the ball, and ability to control games from midfield, is expected to play a central role in Sunderland’s return to the top flight after their promotion last season. He becomes the most high-profile addition to manager Régis Le Bris’ squad as the club looks to consolidate its Premier League status.
Le Bris hailed the signing as a turning point for the club.
“First of all, it’s a massive statement about the attractiveness of the club,” the Frenchman said. “If a player of that dimension says yes to our project, it means something.”
“He brings many things to the balance of the squad. He’s a captain, a leader, with strong experience in the Premier League and with his national team. We’re really happy.”
Sunderland’s ambitious move for Xhaka signals their intent to not only survive but compete in the Premier League, as the club prepares for its first top-flight campaign since 2017. The transfer also reflects the renewed pulling power of a club buoyed by a return to the big stage, a modernized footballing structure, and a clear long-term vision under Le Bris.
Granit Xhaka is expected to join up with his new teammates later this week ahead of Sunderland’s final pre-season fixtures.