What's Happening?
Granit Xhaka, the captain of Sunderland, has been instrumental in the team's rise to the top four of the Premier League. Signed from Bayer Leverkusen for £13 million, Xhaka's performance has been pivotal,
particularly highlighted by his recent goal that secured a 1-1 draw against Everton. This result has placed Sunderland, a recently promoted team, in a Champions League spot a quarter of the way through the season. Xhaka's leadership and experience have been crucial for the team, especially given the young squad's composition. His ability to create chances and his defensive contributions have been noted as key factors in Sunderland's unexpected success.
Why It's Important?
Sunderland's ascent to the top four in the Premier League is significant as it challenges the traditional hierarchy of English football, where newly promoted teams often struggle to compete at the highest level. Xhaka's role underscores the importance of experienced players in guiding younger squads through the rigors of top-flight competition. This development could influence other clubs to invest in seasoned players to stabilize and enhance team performance. For Sunderland, maintaining this position could lead to increased revenue from potential Champions League participation, further solidifying their status in the Premier League.
