Xhaka revives his form at Sunderland, scoring in Everton's 1-1 draw.
Xhaka scored in the 1-1 draw with Everton, playing a key role in Sunderland's top-four finish after 10 rounds: 3 assists, 552 passes, and 9 set-piece chances.
In the 46th minute, Granit Xhaka's spectacular long-range shot ripped through Everton's net, securing a point for Sunderland in a 1-1 draw at home. That goal not only saved the game but also solidified the leadership role of the £13 million signing in their quest to break into the top four after 10 rounds of the 2025/2026 Premier League season.
Xhaka dictates the game, from goals to tempo.
The arrival of Xhaka – a Bundesliga champion with Bayer Leverkusen – immediately elevated Sunderland. Before the match against Everton, Jamie Carragher called him the signing of the season. After 90 minutes, that influence was further solidified when Xhaka received the Man of the Match award.
“He had an outstanding performance, far surpassing almost everyone else on the pitch. Is there anyone in the Premier League having such a huge impact anywhere else? Probably not.”– Carragher said after the match.
The numbers speak for themselves after 10 rounds.
Xhaka's impact isn't just superficial. His Premier League statistics after 10 rounds show he's a key player in Sunderland's midfield.
| Index | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | 3 | After 10 rounds |
| Opportunities created | Tied for 11th place | The entire tournament |
| Fixed opportunity | 9 | There are only 2 more players. |
| Transfer | 552 | Top 20 tournaments |
| Long pass completed | 52 | Just Marcos Senesi more |
| The ball was delivered into the penalty area. | 56 | Belongs to the leading group |
| Regain control | 49 | Belongs to the leading group |
| The match against Everton | 5 chances, 1 goal | Created the most chances in the match; scored in the 46th minute. |
These attributes portray a midfielder who can both orchestrate play and initiate attacks, possess quality set pieces, and thus anchor the tempo for a young team like Sunderland.
Leader among the youth team
Coach Regis Le Bris emphasized the leadership role of the Swiss midfielder:“He’s really important because we have a lot of young players and a lot of new players in this league… A player like Granit, with his previous experience, is incredibly important for Sunderland… He wants to play, he wants to compete, he’s always connected to the game and Xhaka sets the standard.”
Former Sunderland defender Jonny Evans shares the same opinion:“Xhaka is the only one in the squad with real experience. They can rely on him for everything. Xhaka's level of performance is outstanding.”
From controversy to standard
Xhaka returns to England after a period of both triumph and turmoil at Arsenal, where he was once stripped of the captaincy due to clashes with fans. His time in Germany helped him mature and become more restrained – an attitude that is now spreading throughout the Sunderland dressing room.
Former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini commented:“We’ve seen a slightly more restrained version of Xhaka, but it’s actually 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 Champions League qualification spots after 10 rounds, and Xhaka is a crucial factor in that success. His goal against Everton, along with top-tier statistics in assists, long passes, and set pieces, demonstrates his direct impact on their weekly points total.
From a player who was once controversial, Xhaka is writing a new legacy in English football: a capable, exemplary, and reliable leader – someone Sunderland can rely on for every game.
