adminSunderland captain Granit Xhaka has sent an emotional message to fans as he prepares to return to the Academy of Light this week for the start of the 2026/27 season.
The veteran midfielder is wrapping up a well-deserved three-week break following Switzerland’s memorable World Cup run. He’s set to join Thomas Meunier, Omar Alderete, and Chemsdine Talbi in pre-season training as manager Régis Le Bris ramps up preparations for the upcoming campaign.
Xhaka’s future at the Stadium of Light was briefly uncertain earlier this summer, with Chelsea pushing hard to sign him. Despite serious consideration, the midfielder chose to stay with the Black Cats, putting an end to transfer speculation and doubling down on his dedication to the club.
As Sunderland gear up for their first European campaign in over 50 years, Xhaka urged everyone connected with the club to stay united in pursuit of even greater success this season.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the skipper looked back on last year’s historic moments and expressed gratitude for the fans’ steadfast support.
“We created memories that will stay with us forever,” Xhaka wrote.
“The noise, the passion, the nights under the lights, hearing you sing with one voice… those are the moments that remind you why you love this game.
Thank you for believing. Thank you for standing with us every single step of the way. Now a new season begins. New dreams. New challenges. The same badge. The same passion. Let’s cherish every moment, fight for each other, and make this season even more unforgettable than the last. Together. Always.”
Head coach Régis Le Bris also shared his excitement about Xhaka’s comeback, revealing he deliberately stayed in touch only sparingly during the player’s time off to ensure he had ample opportunity to recover from a gruelling campaign.
Le Bris explained that giving players the chance to fully switch off is a key part of the club’s philosophy, and highlighted the major impact Xhaka’s return will have on the squad.
“It’s more or less a rule not to contact players on their holidays,” Le Bris said.
“We want to give them an opportunity to rest and enjoy time with their family, but they’re still in touch with the club. We’re really looking forward to seeing him this week because he sets the standards.
The standards here are already very good, but Granit is hugely important both as a player and as a leader. The influence he has on the behaviour and mentality of the whole squad will be a massive positive when he rejoins the team this week.”
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