Premier League
Granit Xhaka has emerged as the big surprise of the summer transfer market in the Premier League. The Swiss midfielder, with extensive experience in top clubs and the Swiss national team, signed for Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen and shortly after his arrival, he is already considered by many as the best signing of the season. His presence has transformed the midfield of the recently promoted team and has made them a serious contender to maintain their status and aim higher.
In a survey conducted by Sky Sports, Xhaka has been acclaimed as the best signing of the season so far, surpassing other big names that also landed in England this summer. At 33 years old, his maturity, game reading, and leadership have become a cornerstone for Sunderland, who see in him not only a game-changing player but a true beacon within a young and ambitious team.
Xhaka's Impact on Sunderland
Since his arrival, Xhaka has shown that his experience is not just symbolic but an active tool in building a solid team. According to Premier League analysis, his game has been characterized by a high number of recoveries, key interceptions, and a decisive contribution when the team needs it. He has taken on additional defensive duties when necessary, even dropping back to provide extra support in defense for stability. At the same time, his ball distribution has been notable: he has led in successful long passes and in progression towards the opposition's half.
His physical sacrifice also stands out: according to sources like Mackem News, he is one of the team's players covering the most distance per game, showing his commitment both on and off the ball. Additionally, his ability to provide assists has already translated into three within the early matches, along with a goal that solidifies his creative role.
Media Recognition and Leadership at His New Club
His performance has not gone unnoticed in the media. Wayne Rooney, a Premier League legend, has described Xhaka as "probably the signing of the season" due to the impact he has had at Sunderland. Various sources highlight how the Swiss midfielder has "set the pace" for the team and has become their midfield brain.
Locally, the Sunderland Echo newspaper has gone even further: according to data from Whoscored, Xhaka ranks among the best players in the top five European leagues in his position, which is remarkable for someone who has just joined a newly promoted team. Such praises underscore his importance not only for the club but for his own professional legacy.
Moreover, his signing was well thought out. The deal with Leverkusen was closed for a sum close to £17 million, according to Sky Sports, with a three-year contract showing Sunderland's confidence in his long-term leadership capabilities. His arrival was not just to address immediate needs but to establish a new identity in the team's midfield.

A Key Role in Sunderland's Project
Coach Regis Le Bris has entrusted Xhaka with a central role both on and off the field. With his experience and leadership in the dressing room, Xhaka not only provides tactical balance but also guides the younger players. As mentioned in his own statements, his ambition was to bring "experience and quality" to help Sunderland stay competitive.
His responsibility is further reinforced by his ability to adapt to various tasks. He is not just an offensive or defensive midfielder but a complete midfielder who can recover, distribute, and organize. His ball control and reading of the game allow him to intervene in key phases, and his combative spirit, coupled with his ability to play in deeper areas, enhances the team's solidity.
Individual statistics support his significance in the project: he leads in clearances, aerial duels won, recoveries, and excels in creativity and progressive passes. His consistency enables him to build a bridge between Sunderland's experience and youthful ambition.
Despite the major signings in the Premier League last summer, fans and experts have considered Granit Xhaka the best signing of the 25/26 season so far. The impact of the Swiss player has surprised everyone, and he is expected to continue shining at Sunderland.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El mejor fichaje de la temporada en la Premier League
