Robin Gosens defends Sunderland’s Granit Xhaka amid ‘toxic’ dressing room claims

Robin Gosens has leapt to the defence of Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka after reports in Switzerland claimed the national team's dressing room had become "toxic" following the opening match of the World Cup.

The Sunderland captain found himself at the centre of criticism after Switzerland's 1-1 draw with Qatar, with suggestions his outspoken comments had negatively affected the atmosphere within the squad.

However, Gosens has dismissed those claims and instead praised Xhaka's leadership qualities.

Swiss outlet Blick claimed tensions had developed inside the Switzerland camp following Xhaka's public criticism after the draw with Qatar.

The reports suggested the midfielder's behaviour had contributed to a difficult atmosphere within the squad.

Appearing as a guest on ARD's World Cup coverage, Germany international Robin Gosens questioned how such claims could be verified.

"How on earth do they know that the atmosphere is toxic? I don't reckon anyone has inside information from the dressing room."

He added:

"These are always the sort of headlines that naturally grab people's attention; everyone loves to jump on them. But I've never thought much of them."

Rather than relying on media reports, Gosens explained he had spoken directly with people who know Xhaka well.

The full-back revealed conversations with former Atalanta teammate Remo Freuler had consistently painted a very different picture of the Sunderland midfielder.

According to Gosens, Xhaka remains one of Switzerland's most influential figures both on and off the pitch.

He explained the midfielder is viewed as someone his teammates naturally follow and suggested his recent public comments were intended to protect the squad rather than create division.

Gosens believes Xhaka's leadership has been misunderstood.

The German pointed to the midfielder's influence during matches, describing him as the player responsible for organising the team and guiding teammates through difficult moments.

"It's not just hot air. He's a leader on the pitch; you can see it."

He continued:

"The team looks to him for guidance; he directs the team. Everyone looks to him when it comes to knowing how to position themselves. He's the manager's right-hand man, and that's important. I simply think a lot of it is being blown out of proportion."

The comments offer a strong public defence of Xhaka at a time when scrutiny around the Switzerland captain has intensified.

Switzerland will hope to put the controversy behind them as they continue their World Cup campaign, with Xhaka expected to remain central to the team's ambitions.

Whether the speculation surrounding the dressing room fades is likely to depend on results, but Gosens' backing provides a significant show of support for one of Switzerland's most experienced players.

Has Granit Xhaka been unfairly criticised, or do captains have to accept greater scrutiny when results disappoint?