Granit Xhaka has issued an emotional rallying cry to Sunderland supporters ahead of today’s Tyne–Wear derby, promising that the team will “fight for every ball” in one of the club’s biggest fixtures in over a decade. The 33-year-old midfielder, one of the marquee signings of the Le Bris era, has played a central role in Sunderland’s bright return to Premier League life, helping stabilise a young squad with his leadership and experience.
In a message released on the club’s official channels, Xhaka reflected on how quickly he has adapted to life in the North East — both on and off the pitch.
“Since the moment I arrived here, my family and I have felt settled,” he wrote. “I knew coming here would be a big challenge, but it has been a strong start to the season.”
Xhaka has become a cultural anchor for the dressing room, sharing the hardened mentality he forged at Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen. He emphasised unity as Sunderland’s biggest strength under head coach Régis Le Bris, praising the connection between players, staff and supporters.
“The atmosphere you create is incredible,” he wrote. “The belief you show in us makes a huge difference.”
Xhaka: “This derby is something unique”
Having featured in high-intensity derbies across Europe, Xhaka admitted the Tyne–Wear rivalry carries a different emotional weight.
“Everyone has told me this one is different — something powerful for the club and the region,” he said. “We are at home and we must fight for every moment.”
Sunderland’s start to the season has been defined by sharp adaptation, tactical discipline and a revived sense of identity. Xhaka’s arrival has played a major part in that. He has featured 15 times in the Premier League this season, contributing one goal and four assists — numbers that highlight both his set-piece value and influence in deeper buildup phases.
Stats – Granit Xhaka 2025/26
| Stat (2025/26) | Granit Xhaka |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 15 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Pass Accuracy | 83% |
source: sofascore match data – 14 December 2025
Xhaka’s impact goes beyond the numbers. His tempo control, aggression and communication have elevated Sunderland’s structure, offering Le Bris a reliable pivot in high-pressure moments — something the club lacked in recent seasons.
Xhaka’s leadership is Sunderland’s competitive edge
From our perspective covering Sunderland this season, Xhaka has not only raised the technical floor but the psychological one. His message resonates because it mirrors his on-pitch persona: direct, demanding, uncompromising. Although some argue Sunderland rely too heavily on his experience, it’s worth questioning whether that reliance is a weakness or simply natural for a newly promoted squad.
In our view, Sunderland’s ability to match Newcastle’s intensity will depend on their midfield stability — and that is precisely where Xhaka’s influence is most profound. He sets emotional temperature as much as tactical rhythm, and in derby fixtures, that often becomes decisive.
Key Insights
- Xhaka promises Sunderland fans the team will “fight till the end” vs Newcastle.
- Veteran midfielder has been crucial in Le Bris’ system.
- 1 goal and 4 assists underline his strong season so far.
- Sunderland aim to use derby energy to fuel their Premier League push.
What’s Next
Sunderland host Newcastle at 2pm this afternoon in a derby that could shape momentum heading into the festive period. A win would reinforce the club’s impressive adaptation to Premier League life and push them further from the lower-table traffic.
👉 Sunderland fans — has Xhaka been the club’s signing of the season so far?
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 14 Dec 2025 10:31
This is the derby I’ve been looking forward to since Sunderland’s promotion. They’ve surprised a lot of people by doing more than well in the league. I’m just hoping for a good game.
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