Granit Xhaka completes his move from Leverkusen to Sunderland

Granit Xhaka Returns to the Premier League as He Joins Newly-Promoted Sunderland

Former Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka has officially completed a sensational return to the Premier League, signing with newly-promoted side Sunderland ahead of the 2025/26 football season.

The Black Cats announced the high-profile acquisition of the Swiss international on their official website on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, marking a major statement of intent as the club prepares for its first top-flight campaign in several years.

Xhaka, now 32 years old, makes his Premier League comeback after a two-year stint in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen, whom he joined in 2023 after an illustrious seven-year spell at Arsenal. During his time in Germany, Xhaka played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s midfield, racking up 33 league appearances last season, along with 2 goals and 7 assists.

Deal Details and Terms

Sunderland secured the veteran midfielder’s signature after successfully agreeing personal terms last week. He has signed a three-year contract, a move seen as a significant reinforcement for the newly-promoted side as they aim to establish themselves in the Premier League and avoid relegation.

According to transfer sources, the total fee for the deal is reportedly in the region of £17.3 million, consisting of an initial payment of £13 million, with an additional £4.3 million potentially payable through performance-related add-ons.

Xhaka Shares His Excitement

Speaking after completing his move, Xhaka expressed his enthusiasm about joining the project at Sunderland:

“I am very proud to be here. When I spoke with the club, I could feel the energy and mentality from everyone involved—staff and players alike. It’s exactly what I’ve been looking for, and I have a really good feeling about this journey.

This club is back where it belongs, and we want to stay here and create our own history.”

He continued:

“I’m ready to contribute with my experience, but also with quality. We need to connect and find our rhythm on the pitch, but I don’t think that will take long. It’s been a bit of a wait, but now that I’m here, I’m fully focused and looking forward to what lies ahead.”

A Veteran Presence with Premier League Experience

Xhaka brings a wealth of experience to Sunderland. During his time with Arsenal, he made 297 appearances, scoring 23 goals and providing 26 assists across all competitions. Known for his leadership, passing range, and tenacity in midfield, his arrival is expected to bring both stability and drive to Sunderland’s engine room.

His return to England adds a new chapter to his storied career, and Sunderland fans will be hopeful that his presence can provide the maturity and grit needed to survive—and thrive—in the competitive environment of the Premier League.

Source: notjustok.com