Granit Xhaka explains decision to reject Chelsea and remain at Sunderland

Granit Xhaka has explained why he chose to remain at Sunderland despite Chelsea making an £8m approach for the Swiss midfielder during the summer transfer window. The 33-year-old, who joined the Black Cats in 2025 after rebuilding his career following his Arsenal exit, believes Sunderland’s project still has significant room to grow.

Chelsea bid rejected as Xhaka stays put

Chelsea had identified Xhaka as an experienced addition for a squad built largely around younger players and lodged a formal £8m offer. Sunderland rejected the proposal quickly, with the club unwilling to lose a central figure in its midfield ahead of a season that includes European competition.

The London club subsequently added further senior players, completing moves for Jordan Henderson, 36, and Danny Welbeck, 35, as they sought greater leadership within the group.

Xhaka’s potential return to the capital would have carried added significance after his previous spell at Arsenal, but he decided that continuing at Sunderland was the stronger sporting choice.

Long-term Sunderland plan remains the priority

Speaking on the Sports Agents Podcast, Xhaka said his commitment to Sunderland was shaped by the agreement reached when he arrived last year. He stressed that the move was made with a longer-term strategy in mind, rather than as a brief stop in his career.

The midfielder has two years left on his contract and told Sunderland’s owner that he did not feel the work at the club had reached its conclusion. That belief, he said, was central to his decision during the period of Chelsea interest.

• Chelsea submitted an £8m bid for Xhaka in the summer.
• Sunderland rejected the offer and retained the 33-year-old Switzerland international.
• Xhaka joined Sunderland in 2025 and has two years remaining on his deal.
• He views the club’s European campaign and domestic progress as key parts of the project.

Europa League opportunity adds to Xhaka motivation

Sunderland will begin a landmark Europa League campaign with AZ Alkmaar visiting Wearside. Xhaka sees the opportunity to experience European football alongside the club’s supporters as an important reason to remain.

The Black Cats are also due to meet Lech Poznan, Dinamo Zagreb and Anderlecht during the league phase. Xhaka hopes Sunderland can build on this season’s continental involvement and create further opportunities beyond it.

Arsenal come first in Premier League schedule

Before Sunderland turn their attention to AZ Alkmaar, they face Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday. The fixture gives Xhaka an immediate meeting with his former club as he prepares for another demanding season at the heart of Sunderland’s plans.