Arteta’s praise and the Xhaka storyline
When Mikel Arteta spoke about Granit Xhaka, he didn’t couch his words in hedging terms. The Arsenal manager, now reflecting on a different chapter of the midfielder’s career, made clear how highly he regards Xhaka as a summer signing who has made a tangible impact. While their paths diverged post-Arsenal, Arteta’s comments underscore just how highly Xhaka is regarded in terms of leadership, influence, and on-pitch contribution.
Xhaka’s transformation at Sunderland
The Switzerland international, who spent a significant portion of his career in the spotlight at Arsenal, has rediscovered a sense of purpose at Sunderland. Critics and supporters alike watched as he adapted quickly to a new league, a new city, and the heavy expectations that accompany a club promoted to a higher tier. Through discipline, relentless work rate, and a sharper tactical understanding, Xhaka has become a cornerstone of Sunderland’s midfield engine. His ability to control tempo, pick intelligent passes, and contribute defensively has helped the Black Cats push for a consistent run of results.
Why Xhaka fits Sunderland’s project
One of the most compelling narratives of Xhaka’s summer move is how well his qualities align with Sunderland’s project. A club building from solid foundations needs a player who can stabilise midfield transitions, protect leads, and set the tempo for forward plays. Xhaka offers exactly that: composure under pressure, a physical presence in the middle of the park, and a knack for turning possession into attacking momentum. His experience in high-stakes matches means younger teammates can learn by example, while his leadership helps to unify the squad during challenging spells in a season with demanding objectives.
Where does he rank among top summer signings?
Assessing Xhaka against the season’s other notable acquisitions is a nuanced task. Some signings arrive with immediate headlines, while others grow into pivotal players as campaigns progress. Early indicators for Xhaka suggest he is among the more impactful summer arrivals so far, particularly when measured by influence relative to price, adaptation time, and the ability to change a team’s trajectory. The question Arteta addresses—whether Xhaka ranks among the best summer signings—points to a broader discussion about value, fit, and longevity. If Sunderland’s ambitious plan continues to bear fruit, Xhaka’s early influence may well be used as a benchmark for what managers seek in marquee summer additions.
Beyond the numbers: leadership and intangibles
Football success isn’t measured by goals and assists alone. Xhaka’s leadership, work rate, and willingness to take on responsibility have tangible effects in the dressing room and on match days. For Sunderland, a club navigating the pressures of promotion and establishing identity, a player who can steady nerves and drive others forward is as valuable as any individual statistic. Arteta’s public admiration, despite his own distinct coaching path, reflects a shared recognition of how a player’s character and professional ethos can influence a club’s season.
What the future holds for Xhaka and Sunderland
As the season unfolds, the true test for Xhaka—alongside Sunderland—will be consistency and resilience in the face of a congested fixture list, injuries, and the evolving tactical plans of opponents. If the current trend continues, his early dream start could translate into a long-term chapter in Sunderland’s story, with leadership and quality guiding them toward lofty objectives. For Arteta, the respect remains, and for Xhaka, the opportunity to show that a summer move can redefine a player’s role and a club’s fortunes.
