With the international break underway, it’s the perfect moment to revisit not just Granit’s remarkable journey, but also the story of his family. He and his brother Taulant are among the rare siblings who have represented different countries while forging their own paths in European football.
From Basel to the world stage
Born in Basel in 1992 to Albanian parents from Kosovo, Granit Xhaka grew up in a household where football and family pride ran deep. His father had endured political imprisonment in Yugoslavia before the family settled in Switzerland, giving Granit and his older brother Taulant both the opportunity to develop their skills in FC Basel’s youth system.
Granit’s talent was evident early - a midfielder with vision, passing range, and a natural sense of control. By 18, he was lifting Swiss league titles with Basel and attracting attention from top European leagues. In 2012, Borussia Monchengladbach signed him, providing the platform where he would mature into a commanding midfielder.
Arsenal years: Growth through fire
Granit Xhaka moved to Arsenal in 2016 for a transfer fee exceeding £30 million. At the Emirates, he quickly became a fixture in midfield, known for his long passes, tactical intelligence, and fierce competitiveness. His fiery temperament occasionally drew headlines, most notably during the infamous captaincy incident in October 2019.
In a Premier League match against Crystal Palace, Arsenal fans booed Xhaka after a poor team performance. Frustrated, he gestured angrily at the supporters, took off the captain’s armband, and as he walked down the tunnel, threw his jersey to the ground, causing widespread shock and criticism. The incident led to a brief suspension and sparked a heated public discussion about player-fan relationships.
However, Xhaka used the episode as a turning point. Over the following seasons, he rebuilt trust with the fans, matured as a leader, and channelled his intensity into motivating teammates rather than clashing with supporters. His ability to combine tactical discipline with technical skill became a hallmark of his play, shaping him into a mature, reliable figure both on and off the ball.
Leverkusen glory and a new challenge
When Xhaka left Arsenal in 2023 for Bayer Leverkusen, many assumed he was winding down his career. Instead, he helped lead Xabi Alonso’s side to a historic Bundesliga triumph. Calm on the ball, relentless in pressing, and always vocal, he proved he still belonged at the top level.
So when newly promoted Sunderland announced his signing in the summer of 2025, eyebrows were raised again. Why would a Champions League player join a Premier League newcomer? But Granit Xhaka saw something: a project, a challenge, and perhaps a chance to shape a legacy in English football beyond Arsenal.
And so far, it’s paying off. Sunderland’s midfield, once their biggest weakness, has become their core strength. Xhaka’s presence has steadied the side, his passing sets the rhythm, and his leadership - sometimes stern, always passionate - is visibly rubbing off on younger teammates.
Two brothers, two flags
Beyond club football, the Xhaka story carries a deeper emotional thread. While Granit became Switzerland’s most-capped player, Taulant chose to represent Albania. The brothers famously faced each other at Euro 2016 - a symbolic moment of divided loyalties and shared pride.
Granit Xhaka is also known for using the double-headed eagle gesture - the symbol on the Albanian flag - during matches for Switzerland. The most famous moment came during the 2018 World Cup match against Serbia, when he and teammate Xherdan Shaqiri made the gesture after scoring goals. For both players, who have Kosovo-Albanian roots, it was a powerful expression of ethnic pride and identity.
The gesture stirred controversy. FIFA fined both Xhaka and Shaqiri for 'unsporting behaviour contrary to the principles of fair play.' Despite the sanction, the gesture became a symbol for many in the Albanian diaspora and highlighted how football can reflect complex historical and political realities.
The heart of a leader
At 33, Granit Xhaka plays with the poise of a veteran who has seen it all. Sunderland’s dressing room now benefits from his experience, and their fans, once sceptical, have embraced him as a leader.
His transformation - from fiery prodigy to mature conductor - mirrors Sunderland’s own resurgence. Both underestimated, both reborn.
As the Premier League season unfolds, one thing is clear: Granit Xhaka did not just join Sunderland - he’s shaping what they can become.