Granit Xhaka has been named Sunderland captain ahead of the new season, the club announced on Thursday.
The 32-year-old midfielder moved to the Stadium of Light this summer from Bayer Leverkusen and has been handed the armband by head coach Regis Le Bris.
Xhaka brings a wealth of leadership experience, having captained Arsenal during his seven-year spell at the Emirates Stadium. He also wore the armband on numerous occasions at Leverkusen and has served as captain of the Switzerland national team since 2020.
“It makes me incredibly proud to be captain of this club and of this team. I hope to show my leadership on and off the pitch, helping my team-mates in the training ground and across the club,” he told club media.
“To be part of Sunderland’s history, alongside some of the names who have worn the armband before, is an honour.
“People who know me know exactly what they’ll get – I’m someone who demands a lot. I’m a winner and I want to win – and I expect the same from my team-mates.”
Granit Xhaka, the new captain of Sunderland AFC! ❤️🫡
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) August 14, 2025
Manager Le Bris added: “In the Premier League, it will be important to have consistency, maturity, and experience. Granit brings all these qualities.
“His behaviour so far has been very impressive, and on the field, you can see that his level is high. Others around him can feel this influence, and his leadership will support the team as we adapt to a different environment and face new challenges and opportunities.
“Granit’s role will also form part of a new leadership team, which will be finalised following the end of the summer transfer window.”
Sunderland are back in the Premier League after an eight-year absence, and Xhaka is set to lead the Black Cats out for the first time in their season opener against West Ham United on Saturday.
