Granit Xhaka

Granit Xhaka is a highly experienced professional footballer, serving as a central midfielder and captain for Premier League club Sunderland and the Switzerland national team. His career highlights include multiple league titles and cup victories, demonstrating consistent performance at the highest levels of European football. After securing the U-15 Swiss Championship in 2006–07 and the U-16 Swiss Championship in 2007–08 with FC Basel’s youth academy, Granit Xhaka swiftly ascended to the first-team, debuting in 2010. During his tenure with FC Basel, he played a foundational role in the club’s domestic success, clinching two Swiss Super League titles (2010–11, 2011–12) and the Swiss Cup (2011–12).

He also received consecutive Swiss Footballer of the Year accolades in 2022 and 2023. Internationally, Xhaka has been a cornerstone of the Switzerland national team since his senior debut in 2011, becoming the nation’s record appearance holder with 141 caps. He has represented Switzerland in multiple FIFA World Cups and UEFA European Championships, notably captaining the team in Euro 2024 and earning Man of the Match honors in their opening game. Most recently, Xhaka joined newly promoted Premier League side Sunderland in July 2025 for an initial fee of £13 million, immediately named captain for the 2025–26 season, marking another significant leadership role in his distinguished career.