Facing Arsenal at the Stadium of Light will be “emotional” says Xhaka

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·4 November 2025

Facing Arsenal at the Stadium of Light will be “emotional” says Xhaka

Former Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka has been one of the standout performers in the league this season. He has captained newly promoted Sunderland to a current top four position and he has been praised as an influential addition to Regis Le Bris’ side. The Black Cats secured the veteran’s signature for £13 million in the summer, a fee that continues to look like a bargain with each passing game. He was instrumental once again, scoring the equaliser in the recent draw against Everton. Xhaka had previously spent two years with Bayer Leverkusen and he was part of Xabi Alonso’s record breaking 2023 to 24 side. He joined them from Arsenal in 2023, a club in which he spent seven years and even served as club captain briefly.

Xhaka prepares for an emotional reunion

Sunderland will welcome Arsenal to the Stadium of Light this weekend and Xhaka has revealed it will be an emotional game against his former club. After the 1 to 1 draw against Everton on Monday, he was asked about the upcoming fixture, to which he told Sky Sports: “It will be an emotional game for myself. I had seven amazing years there, I still have contact with many players and the coaching staff. To play against them here in Sunderland will be very special.”

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Despite his notable struggles during parts of his Arsenal stint, his final season ended on a high. His impressive performances as the left sided number eight contributed to Arsenal’s unexpected title charge in 2022 to 23. It was his most productive campaign to date as he scored 9 goals and contributed a further 7 assists in 47 appearances. Arsenal ultimately missed out on the title that season, however they did secure a long awaited return to the top four. Xhaka has since gone on to lift silverware, playing a key role in a double winning Bayer Leverkusen side in 2023 to 24.

Granit Xhaka (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Has Xhaka been the signing of the season?

Many Arsenal fans will no doubt be watching his progress closely. His leadership, tactical intelligence and consistency have been crucial for Sunderland. He is currently playing some of the best football of his career, showcasing maturity and influence across midfield.

How impressive has Xhaka been for Sunderland this season? Has he been the signing of the campaign so far?

Are you feeling a bit nervous about this coming weekend Gooners?

Share your thoughts in the comments.

Benjamin Kenneth

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