In a summer where Premier League clubs shattered spending records, exceeding a staggering £3 billion on new talent, a former Manchester United icon has pinpointed a relatively modest acquisition as the most impactful. Wayne Rooney has boldly declared Sunderland's £17 million signing Granit Xhaka as the undisputed 'signing of the season'.
A Record-Breaking Transfer Window
The summer of 2025 saw top-flight English clubs embark on an unprecedented spending spree, obliterating previous financial records. Defending champions Liverpool led the charge, investing over £400 million into their squad under new manager Arne Slot. This massive outlay included twice breaking their own transfer record, first for Florian Wirtz (£116m) and then for Alexander Isak (£125m).
They were far from alone in their extravagance. Footballing giants including Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Newcastle United each committed more than £200 million to new transfers. Despite this colossal financial firepower, the desired results have been elusive for many, with Liverpool's title defence already described as 'hanging by a thread'.
Rooney's Praise for a Promoted Team's Leader
Against this backdrop of billion-pound deals, the analysis from Wayne Rooney has turned heads. On his BBC podcast, the Manchester United and England legend reserved his highest praise not for a nine-figure superstar, but for a seasoned professional at a newly promoted club. 'Granit Xhaka has been fantastic,' Rooney stated.
He highlighted the Swiss international's experience and mentality, referencing Xhaka's well-documented recovery after falling out with Arsenal fans and his subsequent role in captaining the side. 'To get through that and perform for Arsenal shows his mentality,' Rooney added, also noting Xhaka's Bundesliga title win with Bayer Leverkusen.
Rooney expressed initial doubts about the move, acknowledging that many wondered if Xhaka could still excel in the Premier League, especially with a team widely tipped for relegation. 'It was a brave move to go to Sunderland,' he said, 'He deserves credit for being up for that fight.'
Sunderland's Stunning Start Defies Expectations
The impact of Xhaka's leadership has been immediate and profound. After securing promotion via the Championship play-offs, most pundits predicted a difficult season for Sunderland. However, under manager Regis Le Bris, the Black Cats have spectacularly exceeded expectations.
They have lost just two of their first 11 Premier League games, amassing 19 points to sit in the coveted top-four position going into the November international break. Their remarkable campaign has included a stunning victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and becoming just the third team to take points off leaders Arsenal.
Rooney emphasised Xhaka's influence beyond his on-pitch performances, suggesting he acts as a 'father figure' to Sunderland's young squad and a 'big help to the coaches'. With the player's 'desire, work-rate, and influence' winning over fans and pundits alike, Rooney concluded, 'He’s been incredible... He probably is the best signing of the summer, for sure.' Sunderland's next challenge comes after the international break, with a fixture against Fulham.
