Family and Future Plans Behind Xhaka’s Surprise Transfer

When Granit Xhaka surprised many by swapping Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen for Sunderland this summer, everyone was stunned, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

How could one of Europe’s most experienced midfielders, fresh from a title race in Germany, trade Champions League football for a possible relegation battle in England?

Speaking to Flashscore, Xhaka’s agent, Jose Noguera, shed light on the motivations behind the transfer and the vision that convinced his client to take on one of the boldest challenges of his career.

Why did Xhaka decide to leave Bayer Leverkusen after such a successful spell, and how did Sunderland convince him?

“After two years, Xhaka needed a new challenge. That was his belief. The first conversation was on the phone with Sunderland’s owner, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, who is also Swiss and very young. Xhaka connected well with Louis-Dreyfus and liked the vision he was shown,” Noguera initially explained.

“Kyril Louis-Dreyfus called Xhaka directly and asked if he’d be interested in starting the Sunderland project with him. Xhaka referred him to me, and then discussions began.”

But was there interest from Premier League or Champions League clubs?

“Xhaka had a lot of interest from Premier League and Champions League clubs. He turned down three major offers to join Sunderland this summer. He’s used to playing at clubs fighting for Champions League, league titles, cup finals, etc. But he wanted to try something new because he aims to become a coach in the future. So he sees this as a learning experience,” the agent added.

He also said that Xhaka’s family played a big role in the decision.

“His family played a huge role in his move to Sunderland. Since his wife and three children were willing to make the move with him, he accepted – because his family is extremely important to him,” the agent concluded.