Granit Xhaka, the current captain of Sunderland AFC and a fixture of the Switzerland national team, continues to prepare for his fourth FIFA World Cup appearance while maintaining his professional commitments in the Premier League. As of June 2026, the 33-year-old midfielder remains a central figure for both his club and country, with his career trajectory evolving from his Bundesliga success with Bayer Leverkusen back to the English top flight.
A Career Defined by Leadership and Longevity
Xhaka’s professional journey spans over 15 years, beginning at his hometown club, Basel, where he secured two Swiss Super League titles. Following a successful tenure at Borussia Mönchengladbach between 2012 and 2016, Xhaka transitioned to Arsenal. During his seven-season spell in London, he made nearly 300 appearances and lifted the FA Cup twice. His return to Germany in 2023 with Bayer Leverkusen proved historic, as he was instrumental in helping the club secure its first-ever Bundesliga title during his debut season.
Currently, Xhaka serves as the captain for Sunderland AFC, having joined the club in July 2025. According to official player data, he is under contract with the Premier League side through June 30, 2028. His role as a leader extends to the international stage, where he has earned 146 caps for Switzerland, a testament to his sustained physical and tactical utility at the highest level of European football.
Focusing on the 2026 FIFA World Cup
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Xhaka is poised to reach another milestone. Having represented Switzerland in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions, the upcoming tournament will mark his fourth appearance on the global stage. Known for his composure, Xhaka has emphasized a calm approach to the competition, which is expected to be a highlight of his late-career international profile.
His tactical versatility remains a primary asset. While predominantly deployed as a defensive midfielder, his experience in central midfield roles allows him to dictate the tempo of play—a trait that has defined his transition from the technically demanding Bundesliga to the high-intensity environment of the Premier League.
Professional Connections and Family Legacy
Xhaka’s ties to the sport extend beyond his own performance. His brother, Taulant Xhaka, serves as the manager of FC Dardania Basel, while his cousin Agon Xhaka plays for FC Malisheva. These familial connections within the footballing world underscore a deep-rooted involvement in the sport that has persisted since his youth career at FC Concordia Basel and FC Basel.
As he continues his tenure at Sunderland, Xhaka remains active on social media, where he documents his professional life and his involvement with his personal brand. Fans and analysts continue to track his progress as he balances the demands of English league football with his responsibilities as the leader of the Swiss national team.
What Comes Next
Xhaka’s immediate focus is the upcoming international calendar and his continued integration into the Sunderland squad for the 2026-27 season. With his contract running until 2028, he remains a key figure in the club’s long-term planning. Supporters can follow his progress through official club updates and FIFA’s tournament coverage as the national team finalizes its preparations for the World Cup.
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