Sunderland have appointed Granit Xhaka as their new club captain despite the midfielder having only joined two weeks ago.
The 32-year-old joined the Black Cats from Bayer Leverkusen on July 30 and has been given the armband ahead of the club’s return to the Premier League.
Xhaka previously captained Borussia Monchengladbach and Arsenal, while he was worn the armband for Switzerland since 2020.
Xhaka told Sunderland’s official website: ‘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.
‘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.’
Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris said: ‘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.’
Xhaka has 137 caps for Switzerland and won the double with Bayer Leverkusen in the 2023-24 season, while he also won two FA Cups with Arsenal.
In 2019 Xhaka was stripped of the Arsenal captaincy after angrily responding to fans who booed him off as he was substituted in a game against Crystal Palace.
Sunderland have been heavily active in the transfer market as they look to ensure that they can make an impact in the Premier League.
As well as Xhaka, they have brought in Habib Diarra, Noah Sadiki, Reinildo Mandava, Chemsdine Talbi, Simon Adingra, Robin Roefs, Arthur Masuaku and Omar Alderete.
Enzo Le Fee has also signed permanently, while Marc Guiu has joined on loan from Chelsea.
Sunderland get their Premier League campaign underway on Saturday when they host West Ham.
