Granit Xhaka reunion sparks emotion as Arsenal's Mikel Arteta hails Sunderland captain's impact

Xhaka, who spent seven years with Arsenal before leaving in 2023, returned to the Premier League this summer after joining Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth an initial 13 million pounds, potentially rising to 17.3 million pounds in add-ons.

The 33-year-old has quickly become captain of the Black Cats and has played a major role in their strong start to the campaign, helping them sit fourth in the Premier League table with 18 points from 10 games.

Speaking ahead of the match, Arteta praised both Xhaka's influence and Sunderland's progress under their current management. "With the impact he's having, one of the best (signings) I would say," Arteta said.

"What they've done as a football club over the last few years is very impressive, the management, the decisions they've taken, and how stable they look. They've started the season really well."

Xhaka admitted that facing Arsenal again would be "emotional," given his long connection with the club and supporters. During his time in north London, he made over 200 appearances, endured criticism from fans, and was briefly stripped of the captaincy before reviving his career under Arteta.

Arteta reflected warmly on his former player, saying: "I loved every minute that we spent together. When I joined, he was in a special moment of his career, and we tried to guide him, to make him feel loved and valued. He made me a better coach and helped us develop as a team and a club."

The Spaniard also explained Xhaka's decision to leave in 2023, adding: "He was very honest about wanting a new experience back in his country and with his family. It was the right moment, and we found a solution that worked for everyone."

Saturday's clash promises to be a sentimental occasion, as Xhaka leads Sunderland out against the club where he rebuilt both his reputation and his bond with supporters.