Former Watford striker Troy Deeney has singled out Sunderland's summer capture of Granit Xhaka as the undisputed "signing of the season," praising the transformative impact of the former Arsenal midfielder.
From Arsenal Exit to Sunderland Saviour
Sunderland secured the services of the Swiss international for a fee of £17 million following their promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs. The move marked a sensational return to English football for Xhaka, who had left Mikel Arteta's Arsenal to join Bayer Leverkusen in 2023.
Many pundits predicted a season of struggle for Regis Le Bris's newly-promoted side, but they have spectacularly defied expectations. The Black Cats currently sit sixth in the table, a mere two points adrift of the coveted top four positions, having lost just one of their last six matches.
Leadership and Quality on Display
Installed as captain upon his arrival, Xhaka has been instrumental in their success. His assist in Saturday's dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Bournemouth was his fourth of the campaign – the second-highest tally for any midfielder in the league, behind only Bruno Fernandes.
His influence extends far beyond creativity. Xhaka has already won 31 aerial duels this season, more than any other midfielder, underlining his combative presence in the heart of Sunderland's engine room.
Analysing his Premier League Team of the Week for the BBC, Deeney was effusive in his praise. "The boss. Sunderland ground out a hard-fought, resilient result and mentally dominated Bournemouth. Xhaka was at the heart of it," Deeney stated. "Everything with quality came through him as well. Signing of the season so far. He looks an absolute steal."
Rooney and Arteta Echo the Praise
Deeney's assessment is shared by Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney. Speaking on his BBC podcast last month, Rooney highlighted the shrewdness of the transfer. "He's probably been the signing of the season, he's been that brilliant," Rooney said. "It was a brave move to go to Sunderland... He deserves credit for being up for that fight."
Rooney also pointed to Xhaka's role as a leader within a youthful squad, suggesting he acts as a "father figure" and a vital aid to the coaching staff.
Even his former manager, Mikel Arteta, has spoken warmly of the midfielder's departure from North London. The Arsenal boss explained he "loved every minute" of working with Xhaka and only sanctioned the sale to allow the player to move closer to his family. "He made me a better coach," Arteta admitted. "I will be eternally grateful."
With Sunderland's remarkable season continuing to gather pace, the plaudits for their inspirational captain and his bargain transfer show no sign of abating.
