Granit Xhaka looks forward to 'emotional' first Arsenal reunion | OneFootball

The Sunderland midfielder will face the Gunners in a competitive match for the first time since leaving the club in 2023

Granit Xhaka says it will be “emotional” to face his old club Arsenal.

It will be the first time the midfielder has faced his former side in a competitive match after leaving them in 2023 to join Bayer Leverkusen.

Xhaka spent seven years at Arsenal and, despite being stripped of the captaincy during his tenure with the club, he left on good terms.

“We know the quality that Arsenal has,” Xhaka told Sky Sports.

“It will be an emotional game for myself. I had seven amazing years there.

Granit Xhaka was a two-time FA Cup winner with Arsenal

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

“I still have contact with many players, with the coaching staff, and to play against them, here in Sunderland, is very special.

“Hopefully, I can enjoy it as well and let’s see who is the better team on this day.”

Xhaka scored his first goal for Sunderland as the Black Cats drew 1-1 with Everton on Monday night, leaving the Wearside outfit fourth in the Premier League after ten matches.

Speaking post-match, Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris hailed Xhaka’s experience as key for his side: “He’s really important because we have many young players and many new players in this league.

“They don’t know the condition and one player like Granit, with his previous experiences, is really important for us. He has this quality to score.

“I’m happy to have this kind of player. He wants to play football, he wants to be competitive, he’s always connected with the game and he sets the standards.”