Xhaka spent the previous two seasons at Leverkusen following his exit from Arsenal. During his debut campaign in Germany, he secured the Bundesliga title and advanced to the Europa League final. This transfer occurs despite Leverkusen manager Erik ten Hag stating only last week that Xhaka remained too significant a figure for his squad to lose.
In a statement released by Sunderland, Xhaka said: “I am very proud to be here. When I spoke to the Club, I was excited and I felt the energy, and the mentality that all the people and players have.” His arrival represents a major statement of intent for the newly-promoted side.
The experienced midfielder brings substantial League knowledge to Sunderland’s midfield, having made 225 appearances in the competition during his seven-year tenure at Arsenal. With the North London club, he also won the FA Cup on two separate occasions.
Sunderland will commence their season on Saturday, August 16, hosting West Ham United at the Stadium of Light. Xhaka is anticipated to feature prominently in manager Regis Le Bris’s plans for the opening match.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
