“Biggest Challenge of My Career”: Granit Xhaka Opens Up on Sunderland Move Ahead of 2025-26 Premier League Season
London – Former Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka has described his move to newly-promoted Sunderland as the “biggest challenge” of his career, as he prepares to return to the Premier League for the 2025-26 season.
The Swiss international, who played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s 2023-24 Bundesliga title-winning campaign, said the decision to join Sunderland was driven by a desire for a fresh, demanding challenge—and a belief in the club’s ambitious project.
“I felt I needed a new and big challenge,” Xhaka said in an interview with JioHotstar. “When I spoke with the club, I was very excited—to feel the energy, the mentality, the people, the players, and the atmosphere. It was exactly what I was looking for.”
Known for his leadership and uncompromising playing style, Xhaka acknowledged Sunderland’s rich history and their return to top-flight football after a long absence added gravity to the opportunity.
“When you start talking with the club, you begin to understand its history. I know where they’ve been—and where they are now—which makes the challenge even bigger. But now we’re back where this club belongs, and we want to stay. I want to be part of that journey and help write a new chapter.”
Now 32, Xhaka brings extensive experience from both the Premier League and continental Europe, and he believes his knowledge can help steady Sunderland in the top division.
“I’ve been in the UK for seven years. I know the league, the expectations, the mentality. What I bring is experience, resilience, and a commitment to hard work. I believe in the team’s goals, and I’m here to support the club and my teammates every day.”
The former Gunners captain also spoke about the unique kind of pressure that comes with this move.
“It’s definitely a different kind of pressure—but I like that. It’s a big challenge for me, the club, and my teammates. But I feel something special here. There’s real potential for change, and I want to help lead that.”
Beyond the tactical and technical aspects, Xhaka emphasised the importance of passion, effort, and setting the tone for younger players.
“I’ll give the fans everything—energy, passion, and fight. Every ball, every minute, for the badge and the club. That’s the standard I hold myself to.”
He also praised the balance within Sunderland’s squad, which features a blend of young talent and experienced players.
“A team needs that mix, and I think we have it here. I’m not done yet—I still have the hunger to achieve great things. That’s why I chose Sunderland. I believe we can find our rhythm and do something special.”
As the new season approaches, Xhaka signed off with a message of determination—and a call for unity.
“I love challenges, and this might be the biggest one of my career. I’m here to prove myself day by day, match by match. We’ll give everything on the pitch from the first whistle to the last. All we ask is for the fans’ support—because together, we can achieve the goals we’ve set.”
With Xhaka’s experience and leadership now in their ranks, Sunderland’s return to the Premier League promises to be one to watch.
