Xhaka reveals that Sunderland feels like coming home.

Sunderland, one of the most iconic cities in English football, has a new hero, and his name is Granit Xhaka. The team captain, who joined the club at the beginning of the season after a notable transfer from Bayer Leverkusen, could not be more excited about his new life in Wearside. In statements that resonate like a love anthem for the city and its passionate fan base, Xhaka reveals that Sunderland has become his home.

“I felt it in a similar way to where I grew up in Basel. I felt like I was back home,” Xhaka said in an interview with safc.com. It is clear that the vibrant and warm atmosphere surrounding Sunderland AFC has a profound impact on the player. He praises the dedication of the fans, referring to the unconditional support the team receives, both at home and away. “The stadium is full at home and away. Our mission is to give them something back; they deserve a smile,” he emphasized.

The captain does not forget the club’s recent past, where the last few years have been marked by struggles. “I know they have been fighting for many years. In the end, it is us who need to give them something back,” he added, underscoring his commitment to changing the team’s fortunes and bringing new life to the fans.

But Xhaka is not just a leader on the pitch; he reveals a more relaxed facet of his personality. “I am a different Granit on and off the pitch. I want to win. I will do everything to win on the pitch. Off the pitch, I am a very laid-back person. I like to joke, laugh, and try to be a role model for the next generation,” he said, showing that his dedication to football does not hinder his ability to connect with the young fans who see him as an idol.

Granit Xhaka’s transformation in Sunderland is not just a story of sporting success; it is a narrative of resilience, love for the game, and genuine connection with the fans. As the season progresses, the city and its supporters eagerly await the new chapters that Xhaka and the team will write together, on a journey that promises to be thrilling and full of achievements.

This article first appeared in Apito Final.