Régis Le Bris has firmly rejected any possibility of Granit Xhaka leaving Sunderland, delivering a clear message to Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid that the Swiss midfielder will not be departing the Stadium of Light. The Sunderland manager ended speculation surrounding the 33-year-old's future with an unequivocal statement to the press.
When asked about Xhaka's potential departure, Le Bris was decisive: "No, this topic is closed." The French coach emphasised the midfielder's deep commitment to the club and his ambitions to build Sunderland's project. "He was very clear about his future. He loves Sunderland, and he wants to stay here. He wants to build its future. He is a good and great captain," Le Bris told the Daily Mail, underlining Xhaka's leadership role and emotional connection to the club.
Chelsea's Rejected Bid and Madrid's Interest
The transfer noise intensified earlier this month when reports emerged that Chelsea had made an offer for the veteran midfielder. The Blues' opening bid of £8 million was swiftly rejected by Sunderland's board, who described the valuation as insulting given Xhaka's instrumental performances during the previous campaign. The midfielder played a central role in Sunderland's impressive seventh-place Premier League finish and their subsequent qualification for the Europa League—a remarkable achievement that underscored his value to the northeast club.
Xhaka's potential appeal to Madrid's newly appointed manager lay in their successful working relationship at Bayer Leverkusen, where Alonso maximised the midfielder's capabilities during a fruitful spell in the Bundesliga. However, despite the prospect of reuniting with a manager who had previously extracted elite performances from him, Xhaka has publicly reaffirmed his dedication to Sunderland following direct conversations with the club's hierarchy.
Xhaka's Commitment and Sunderland's Project
The Switzerland international's decision reflects the growing stature of Sunderland under Le Bris's management. With Europa League football on the horizon and clear ambitions for sustained progression, Xhaka sees his future tied to the club's upward trajectory rather than a move to Spain or elsewhere. His captaincy and experience will be crucial as Sunderland targets consolidation in the top flight and a stronger European campaign in the coming season.
