Granit Xhaka Emerges As Sunderland's Best New Signing This Season, According To Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney has praised Granit Xhaka as the top new addition to a Premier League team this season. Xhaka transferred to Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen for approximately £17.3 million (€20 million) during the summer. This move came as Sunderland returned to the Premier League for the first time since the 2016-17 season. Xhaka quickly made his mark, becoming a key player and captain under Regis Le Bris.

Sunderland's impressive start sees them in fourth place, just three points shy of second, following a 2-2 draw against Arsenal, Xhaka's former club. Rooney believes the 33-year-old midfielder has distinguished himself as the Premier League's best signing so far. On The Wayne Rooney Show, Manchester United's all-time leading scorer stated: "Coming back to the Premier League, you wonder if he can do it. Obviously, with a promoted team as well coming up, what impact could he have? But he's probably been the signing of the season. He has been brilliant."

Xhaka leads Sunderland in several statistics this season: assists (three), expected assists (1.2), successful passes (494), passes into the box (60), chances created (16), and duels won (67). Among all outfield players in the league, only three have completed more long passes than Xhaka's 52. Rooney further commented on Sunderland's youthful squad and how Xhaka serves as a mentor: "Sunderland have got a very young squad as well. He'd almost be like a father figure and he'll be a big help for the coach as well to be the in-between man as captain."

Rooney also highlighted Xhaka's valuable experience gained at Arsenal and Leverkusen. At Arsenal, Xhaka overcame challenges with fans to become an essential player under Mikel Arteta. His success continued at Leverkusen, where he helped secure a title win over Bayern Munich after more than a decade. Rooney remarked on this resilience: "When he had the situation with Arsenal, when he fell out with the fans it showed his character to go and play for Arsenal again."

Xhaka's leadership is crucial for Sunderland, especially after their numerous summer signings. His experience aids both manager and teammates significantly: "And they made a lot of signings in the summer, he'll be a massive help for the manager and with them players, for sure, using his experience," Rooney added.

Xhaka’s journey from overcoming fan disapproval at Arsenal to achieving success at Leverkusen underscores his strength as a player. His contributions are vital for Sunderland’s promising campaign in their return to top-flight football.