Granit Xhaka Elevates Sunderland's Standards in Premier League
Dan Ballard has noted that Granit Xhaka's presence has significantly raised the standards at Sunderland, enabling the team to compete effectively in the upper half of the Premier League.
The Swiss midfielder was among several key summer signings following the club's promotion from the Championship via the play-offs.
At 33 years old, Xhaka joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen and was appointed captain, bringing a notable impact to a team that has quickly adapted to life in the top flight.
Currently, Sunderland sits in eighth place on the table, just two points shy of the top four, after securing a 1-0 victory against Newcastle in a recent derby match.
Ballard, who trained in Arsenal's academy during Xhaka's tenure at the club, shared his thoughts on the midfielder during an interview with Football Focus: "He's an amazing guy. I was a bit surprised when we signed him. I wasn’t sure what it would be like. I didn’t think one person could influence the team as he has. From the very first minute, I noticed a significant rise in standards because he gives everything at 100%."
Ballard continued, "It's like, if he has had such an incredible career and is still performing at such a high level, why shouldn’t we? It has truly elevated everyone's standards."
Sunderland has recorded seven wins and only four losses in their 16 league matches, a testament to Xhaka's winning mentality, according to Ballard.
"He influences literally everything, from the gym work to the standards he sets on the training pitch," the 26-year-old centre-back added. "Even when it's cold and wet outside, he remains completely focused and committed during training. When some of us may not be putting in the same effort, seeing him work so hard makes it unacceptable for us. If he can do it, having won titles and played hundreds of games in the Premier League, then why shouldn’t we? It has inspired everyone."
While Xhaka is new to Sunderland, Ballard has been with the Black Cats since 2022 and was instrumental in last season's promotion. He faced challenges during his time at Arsenal, where he did not make a senior appearance in three seasons.
Now a regular in the Premier League and a Northern Ireland international, Ballard reflected on his journey: "I wasn’t really the best player in my age groups. I had to fight for every opportunity and every chance. It wasn’t smooth sailing, but being part of an academy like Arsenal's provided me with excellent coaching and the chance to learn. I have managed to carve out a career for myself."
Both Xhaka and Ballard have garnered praise for their performances, but the club's head coach, Regis le Bris, has also received commendation for his contributions. The French coach joined Sunderland in the summer of 2024, and his tactical expertise has been crucial in achieving impressive results, including victories against Chelsea and Newcastle, as well as draws against league leaders Arsenal and reigning champions Liverpool at Anfield.
"He’s been amazing for us, a really good fit," Ballard remarked. "Last year, we had a very young team, but his straightforward approach to tactics is key. He knows exactly what he wants and communicates it clearly, always coaching us. I’ve learned so much in the past year, probably more than in all the years before it. He has us playing really well, making us a strong and competitive team."