Granit Xhaka has opened up about his uncertain future at Sunderland, admitting that he is “very, very sad” after learning that the club is currently unable to offer him a new contract.
The Sunderland captain made the emotional admission during a revealing interview, explaining how difficult it has been to watch other members of the squad agree fresh deals while his own future remains unresolved.
Xhaka has become one of the most influential figures at Sunderland since arriving at the Stadium of Light. His leadership, experience and performances have made him an important part of the team, while he has also regularly worn the captain’s armband.
Speaking about the situation, Xhaka made it clear that the lack of a new contract has affected him personally.
“I received the news that the club was not in a position to offer me a new contract, which makes me very, very sad because everyone can see I give 100% for this football club every single day in training,” the midfielder said.
The Swiss international acknowledged that he was pleased to see teammates rewarded with new contracts, but admitted that their renewals also highlighted his own disappointment.
Despite his frustration, Xhaka insisted that his commitment to Sunderland will not change. He reassured supporters that he intends to continue giving everything for the club for as long as he remains on Wearside.
“I always give my best. I see other players renewing their contracts because they deserve it; it makes me happy, but at the same time it makes me sad because I didn’t get mine,” he explained.
The comments have naturally attracted significant attention from Sunderland supporters, particularly because of the importance Xhaka has assumed within the squad.
Rather than issuing an ultimatum or threatening to leave, the midfielder appeared to be expressing genuine disappointment while maintaining his professionalism. He also spoke warmly about the relationship he has developed with the Sunderland fanbase since joining the club.
“I love playing for this football club,” Xhaka said, highlighting the incredible support he has received since his arrival.
His situation comes at an important time for Sunderland as the club adjusts to life in the Premier League. With the team attempting to establish itself at the highest level, retaining experienced leaders such as Xhaka could prove valuable both on and off the pitch.
The midfielder’s influence also extends beyond his performances. His standards in training and experience have reportedly made him an important figure for younger players within the squad.
Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has generally avoided going into detail about individual contract situations, choosing instead to concentrate on the team’s performances. However, Xhaka’s importance to the group is difficult to overlook.
For now, the player has made his position clear. He remains committed to Sunderland and intends to perform at his best regardless of the uncertainty surrounding his future.
“I will give 100% until the last day I’m here,” Xhaka told supporters.
That message will provide some reassurance to Sunderland fans, although questions over his long-term future are unlikely to disappear.
The coming months could therefore prove decisive. Whether Sunderland eventually return to the negotiating table remains unclear, but Xhaka’s emotional admission has certainly put the spotlight firmly on his contract situation.
For now, the captain will continue to lead from the front and focus on matters on the pitch. But with the midfielder admitting just how disappointed he feels, supporters will undoubtedly be watching closely for any developments regarding his future at the Stadium of Light.