Granit Xhaka
Granit Xhaka is set for an emotional reunion with his former club as he leads Sunderland against Arsenal in a highly anticipated Premier League clash this Friday. The Swiss international, who now captains fourth-placed Sunderland, will be facing Arsenal for the first time since leaving the North London side seven years ago.
Xhaka, 33, spent a significant part of his career at Arsenal, where he lifted two FA Cups and played under both Arsène Wenger and Mikel Arteta. Despite his on-field successes, his tenure was not without controversy — most notably his public confrontation with Arsenal fans in 2019 that led to him being stripped of the captaincy. However, he rebuilt his reputation through consistency and leadership, eventually becoming one of the most respected figures in the dressing room before moving on to seek new challenges.
At Sunderland, Xhaka has flourished as a leader, guiding the team to an impressive fourth place in the Premier League table this season. His arrival has injected much-needed experience, composure, and grit into the young Sunderland side, transforming them into genuine European contenders.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Xhaka expressed admiration for his former club while maintaining focus on the task ahead.
> “Arsenal gave me a lot — memories, growth, and respect. But now, my responsibility is with Sunderland. I owe it to my teammates and our fans to give everything for this badge,” Xhaka said.
He also noted that while scoring against Arsenal would be special, he would not celebrate out of respect for the club and its supporters.
“It’s a club that shaped me, and I’ll always be grateful. If I score, I’ll celebrate quietly — for me, it’s about respect,” he added.
The upcoming match carries emotional and competitive weight. Arsenal, sitting at the top of the Premier League, will be determined to extend their lead in the title race, while Sunderland hopes to solidify their top-four ambitions. For Xhaka, it’s more than just three points — it’s a full-circle moment that symbolizes resilience, maturity, and evolution.
Football fans across England will be watching closely as Xhaka walks out onto the pitch — no longer in Arsenal red, but proudly wearing Sunderland’s captain’s armband, leading his new club into battle against his old one.
