Former England striker Wayne Rooney has hailed Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka as “probably the signing of the season,” following the Black Cats’ sensational return to the Premier League.
Sunderland, defying expectations, currently sit fourth in the league table after 11 games with 19 points.
The 33-year-old Xhaka, a £13 million summer signing from Bayer Leverkusen, has been the linchpin of their success.
Rooney praised the veteran’s immediate and comprehensive impact: “He’s probably been the signing of the season. He has been brilliant.”
Xhaka has played every minute of the campaign, registering one goal and three assists, and notably leads the squad in crucial metrics including assists, chances created, successful passes, and distance covered.
Drawing on Xhaka’s turbulent but ultimately successful career at Arsenal—where he was briefly a “pantomime villain” before regaining his status—Rooney highlighted his strong character.
The former midfielder serves as an experienced “father figure” to Sunderland’s young team, offering vital leadership both on the pitch and in supporting the coach.
