Xhaka revived at Sunderland, scoring in a 1-1 draw with Everton
Xhaka scored in the 1-1 draw with Everton, playing a key role in bringing Sunderland into the top 4 after 10 rounds: 3 assists, 552 passes, 9 chances from set pieces.
In the 46th minute, Granit Xhaka's dangerous long-range shot tore through Everton's net, saving Sunderland a point in a 1-1 draw at home. That goal not only saved the game, but also confirmed the £13 million signing's leadership role in the journey to the top 4 after 10 rounds of the 2025/2026 Premier League.
Xhaka shapes the game, from goals to rhythm
The arrival of Xhaka – a Bundesliga champion with Bayer Leverkusen – immediately lifted Sunderland. Before the Everton game, Jamie Carragher called him the signing of the season. After 90 minutes, that influence was further reinforced when Xhaka was named Man of the Match.
“He was outstanding, outclassing almost everyone else on the pitch. Is there anyone in the Premier League who is having that kind of impact anywhere? Probably not.”– Carragher said after the match.
The numbers speak for themselves after 10 rounds
Xhaka's impact is not just about the looks. His Premier League stats after 10 games show he is a mainstay in Sunderland's midfield.
| Index | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | 3 | After 10 rounds |
| Opportunities created | 11th place | Full tournament |
| Fixed Opportunity | 9 | There are only 2 players more |
| Pass | 552 | Top 20 tournaments |
| Long pass completed | 52 | Only Marcos Senesi more |
| The ball is put into the penalty area. | 56 | Belonging to the leading group |
| Take back control | 49 | Belonging to the leading group |
| Match against Everton | 5 chances, 1 goal | Created most chances in the match; scored in the 46th minute |
These stats outline a midfielder who can organise play, initiate attacks and possess quality set pieces, thereby anchoring the tempo for a young team like Sunderland.
Leader among the young team
Coach Regis Le Bris emphasized the leadership role of the Swiss midfielder:“He is really important because we have a lot of young players and new players in this league... A player like Granit, with his previous experience, is really important for Sunderland... He wants to play, he wants to compete, he is always involved in the game and Xhaka sets the standards.”
Former Sunderland defender Jonny Evans shares the same view:“Xhaka is the only one in the squad with real experience. They can rely on him for everything. His performance level is outstanding.”
From controversy to standard
Xhaka returns to England after a mixed spell at Arsenal, where he was stripped of the captaincy after falling out with fans, and his time in Germany has helped him mature and become more restrained – an attitude that has permeated the Sunderland dressing room.
Former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini commented:“We’ve seen a slightly more restrained version of Xhaka, but it’s better than the impulsive type. Xhaka is calmer, more composed. Having someone like that in the squad, especially a young squad, and everyone trusts him.”
Immediate impact on the race
Sunderland are in the Champions League places after 10 games, and Xhaka has been instrumental in that success. His goal against Everton and his top figures for assists, long passes and set pieces have had a direct impact on the weekly scoreline.
From a player who was once controversial, Xhaka is writing a new legacy in English football: a capable, standard and reliable locomotive - someone Sunderland can rely on for every match.
