Sunderland striker Wilson Isidor has spoken glowingly about Granit Xhaka’s influence since joining the club, describing the 33-year-old midfielder as a driving force in the squad’s push to establish themselves in the Premier League.
In an interview with L’Equipe, Isidor explained that Xhaka has been “nothing but winning” for two years with Bayer Leverkusen and has now brought that same mentality to Wearside. The Swiss international was a surprise summer signing, leaving Germany for €15 million after captaining Leverkusen to silverware. Sunderland wasted no time handing him the armband under boss Regis Le Bris, and he has started and completed all six Premier League games so far, contributing three assists.
Xhaka setting standards at Sunderland
While Xhaka’s ability on the pitch has been crucial, his off-pitch leadership has arguably had an even greater impact. Isidor revealed that Xhaka has taken it upon himself to set the tone in training and call out lapses in standards, even with the club’s younger players.
“He brings a winning mentality, even in small games in training. If the quality of the session isn’t good, he’ll yell. I have an example: there’s little Chris Rigg in the squad, and he’s brought him back into shape. He was a little lazy in training, so he went to talk to him to ask him to change his attitude. That changed him.” — Wilson Isidor to L’Equipe
The French forward believes Xhaka’s no-nonsense approach has already improved standards in the squad and could prove vital in Sunderland’s bid to stay up.
A captain with instant impact
Xhaka’s arrival may have been unexpected, but he has quickly become the heartbeat of Sunderland’s team. His Premier League experience with Arsenal has provided a foundation of leadership, while his Bundesliga-winning pedigree has added credibility in a young dressing room.
His combination of consistency, creativity, and authority has given Sunderland a stabilising figure in midfield. The three assists underline his influence in attack, but it is his captaincy and willingness to demand more from teammates that stand out most.
| Stat (2025/26) | Wilson Isidor |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 7 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Minutes Played | — |
source: sofascore match data – 4 October 2025
Isidor himself has begun the season brightly, scoring three times in his first seven appearances. He credits the collective lift provided by Xhaka and other new arrivals as key to Sunderland’s competitiveness so far.
Analyst Verdict: The Xhaka effect
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Sunderland’s signing of Xhaka could be a defining moment in their season. “When a newly promoted side secures a proven leader like Xhaka, it changes everything. He has the technical ability to influence games and the mentality to raise the squad’s standards. For young players like Chris Rigg, this kind of mentorship is invaluable.”
William added: “If Sunderland do survive, Xhaka will be remembered as the signing who transformed their culture. He has brought both authority and accountability.”
Key Insights
- Granit Xhaka joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen for €15m in summer 2025.
- The 33-year-old was immediately made captain by Regis Le Bris.
- Xhaka has started all 6 league games this season, recording 3 assists.
- Wilson Isidor says Xhaka’s leadership has changed the mentality in training.
- Isidor has scored 3 goals in 7 appearances so far this season.
What’s Next for Sunderland?
Sunderland face Manchester United next in the Premier League as they continue their battle to secure survival. With Xhaka marshalling midfield and younger players responding to his leadership, optimism is building on Wearside.
Long-term, the Swiss international could be the cornerstone of Sunderland’s return to top-flight stability. His blend of experience and accountability may yet prove the difference between a relegation battle and an unlikely mid-table finish.
👉 Do you think Granit Xhaka is the key signing who will keep Sunderland in the Premier League?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *