Granit Xhaka is making waves in the football world, not just for his on-field performances, but also for his leadership qualities. After a turbulent period at Arsenal, the Swiss midfielder has found a new lease on life at Sunderland, where he's being hailed as a 'second coach' by manager Regis Le Bris.
Xhaka's Impact at Sunderland
Sunderland's impressive start to the season has been largely attributed to Xhaka's influence. The 33-year-old has seamlessly integrated into the team, providing a calming presence and tactical awareness that belies his position as a player. Le Bris emphasizes Xhaka's ability to guide the team on the pitch, making him an invaluable asset.
His impact is so profound that he's already being considered one of the signings of the summer. This is a stark contrast to his final days at Arsenal, where he faced criticism and even lost the captaincy after a falling out with fans.
Arteta's Praise and Xhaka's Arsenal Legacy
Even Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, acknowledges Xhaka's positive influence. Arteta credited Xhaka for making him a better coach, highlighting the midfielder's ability to transform the atmosphere within a team. Despite their past differences, Arteta expressed gratitude for Xhaka's contributions and acknowledged the difficulty in letting him leave.
"He made me a better coach. He helped us to develop and improve a lot as a team and a club," Arteta said, reflecting on their time together. He described Xhaka as a transformative figure in the dressing room, praising his professionalism and personality.
Facing His Former Club
This weekend, Xhaka will face his former club, Arsenal, in a highly anticipated match. It's a chance for him to prove his worth and demonstrate the skills that Arsenal envisioned when they initially signed him – a defensively solid, level-headed, and influential presence in midfield. The match promises to be a compelling encounter, showcasing Xhaka's remarkable journey from Arsenal outcast to Sunderland's key player.
Fans can watch Sunderland vs Arsenal live on Sky Sports this weekend from 5pm, kick-off 5.30pm.