Wayne Rooney, a legend of Manchester United and England, has singled out a surprising star as the signing of the season: Granit Xhaka. The midfielder’s impact at Sunderland has been nothing short of transformative, defying pre-season expectations and captivating the football world.
Sunderland’s return to the Premier League was met with widespread predictions of a swift return to the Championship. Few gave the Black Cats a chance, but Regis Le Bris’s squad has silenced critics, losing only twice in their opening eleven games and securing a remarkable top-four position.
The team’s resilience was spectacularly demonstrated with a stunning victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and a hard-fought draw against league leaders Arsenal. At the heart of this success lies Xhaka, a player Rooney believes has been exceptional.
“Granit Xhaka has been fantastic,” Rooney declared. “He doesn’t rely on blistering pace, but his experience allows him to expertly control the tempo of a match. It’s a testament to his character that he overcame the difficult period with Arsenal, even captaining the side after facing fan criticism.”
Xhaka’s journey didn’t end there. He then showcased his abilities on the continent, securing a Bundesliga title with Bayer Leverkusen before making the bold move to Sunderland. This demonstrated a hunger for challenge and a belief in his own abilities.
Rooney continued, “He’s proven what a good player he is. Many questioned whether he could still perform in the Premier League, especially with a newly promoted team, but he’s arguably been the signing of the season – truly brilliant.”
The decision to join Sunderland, a club many predicted for immediate relegation, was a courageous one. Rooney emphasized Xhaka’s willingness to embrace the fight and his immediate connection with the club’s passionate supporters. His performances have quickly earned him their adoration.
“He’s shown incredible desire and work rate, influencing everyone around him,” Rooney explained. “I honestly didn’t anticipate him having a season like this. Sunderland’s young squad benefits immensely from his experience; he’s become a leader, a mentor, and a vital asset to the coaching staff.”
Sunderland’s impressive start has yielded 19 points from 11 games, placing them in a strong position as the season progresses. Considering only 26 points were needed to avoid relegation last season, their current form is a remarkable achievement, and Xhaka is undeniably a key component of their success.
The Black Cats will return to action against Fulham, carrying the momentum of a truly unexpected and inspiring beginning to their Premier League campaign. Xhaka’s influence continues to grow, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in Sunderland’s resurgence.
