Former Manchester United and England star Wayne Rooney has heaped praise on Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka, describing him as “probably the signing of the season.” The Swiss midfielder has played a major role in Sunderland’s strong start to life back in the Premier League, with the club currently fourth after 11 games on 19 points.
Signed from Bayer Leverkusen for £13 million, Xhaka has been a model of consistency, bringing control and maturity to a youthful Sunderland team. He has featured in every minute of the season so far, contributing one goal and three assists, while leading the team across several key metrics — including assists, chances created, passes completed, and duels won.
Rooney said on The Wayne Rooney Show: “Coming back to the Premier League you wonder if he can do it. Obviously with a promoted team as well coming up, what impact could he have? But he’s probably been the signing of the season. He has been brilliant.”
From Arsenal Controversy to Sunderland Leadership
Before arriving at Sunderland, Xhaka made 297 appearances for Arsenal, winning two FA Cups. His time in North London wasn’t without challenges — the midfielder endured criticism, clashed with fans, and was briefly stripped of the captaincy in 2019. However, under Mikel Arteta, he turned his career around, becoming an essential part of the Gunners’ setup before moving to Leverkusen in 2023.
At Leverkusen, Xhaka helped the club claim its first-ever Bundesliga title, proving his resilience and quality on the biggest stage.
Rooney acknowledged that journey, saying: “When he had the situation with Arsenal, when he fell out with the fans it showed his character to go and play for Arsenal again.
To get through that and then go and perform for Arsenal, and then at Leverkusen to be part of a team to beat Bayern Munich to the title for the first time in over 10 years has shown what a good player he is.”
Experience and Influence Driving Sunderland’s Success
Now 33, Xhaka’s impact at Sunderland extends beyond his on-field performances. He has become a vital mentor figure for the club’s young squad and a trusted voice for the coaching staff.
As Rooney highlighted: “Sunderland have got a very young squad as well. He’d almost be like a father figure and he’ll be a big help for the coach as well to be the in-between man as captain.
And they made a lot of signings in the summer, he’ll be a massive help for the manager and with them players, for sure, using his experience.”
With his blend of experience, leadership, and relentless energy, Granit Xhaka has not only solidified Sunderland’s midfield but also validated Wayne Rooney’s belief that he is indeed the Premier League’s signing of the season.
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