Granit Xhaka’s arrival at Sunderland has transformed the Black Cats, according to defender Dan Ballard, who says the Swiss international has significantly raised standards across the club. The 33-year-old midfielder, who joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen during the summer following their Championship play-off promotion, was immediately installed as captain and has set a benchmark for professionalism on and off the pitch.
Sunderland currently sit eighth in the Premier League, just two points shy of the top four, following a 1-0 victory in the Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United. Ballard told Football Focus that Xhaka’s leadership has been pivotal to the team’s resurgence in the top flight.
“He’s an amazing guy. I was a bit surprised when we signed him. I didn’t think one person could affect the team the way he’s done. From minute one, the standards really rose because he does everything to 100%,” Ballard explained.
Xhaka’s Influence on Training and Team Mentality
Ballard, a 26-year-old centre-back and former Arsenal academy graduate, highlighted how Xhaka’s professionalism and winning mentality have lifted everyone at Sunderland.
“From the gym to the training pitch, he’s 100% focused, giving everything. When some of us may slack off and see him putting in that work, it becomes unacceptable. If he can do it with his career and experience, why shouldn’t we?”
Sunderland’s impressive league form — seven wins and four losses from 16 matches — is testament to the Swiss midfielder’s influence in instilling discipline and ambition among younger players.
Ballard’s Journey: From Arsenal to Premier League Regular
While Xhaka’s experience is shaping Sunderland, Ballard’s own journey underscores the importance of perseverance. The Northern Ireland international has been with Sunderland since 2022 but struggled to break into Arsenal’s first team, failing to make a senior appearance in three seasons.
“I had to fight for every opportunity. It wasn’t smooth sailing, but coming through an academy like Arsenal’s, you learn a lot if you’re willing to listen and develop,” he said.
Now a Premier League regular, Ballard credits both Xhaka and the club’s coaching staff for helping him flourish at the highest level.
Regis Le Bris: Tactical Mastermind Behind Sunderland’s Success
Sunderland’s impressive performances are not solely down to players. French manager Regis Le Bris, who joined in summer 2024, has also received plaudits for his tactical approach. Under Le Bris, Sunderland have achieved notable results, including:
- Victory at Chelsea
- Draws against Premier League leaders Arsenal
- Draw at Anfield against reigning champions Liverpool
- Derby win against Newcastle United
Ballard praised the coach’s clarity and methodology:
“He knows exactly what he wants, tells you clearly, and doesn’t beat around the bush. I’ve learned more in the last year than all the years before that. He’s made us a really strong, competitive team.”
Xhaka’s leadership combined with Le Bris’ tactical acumen has propelled Sunderland into top-half contention, making them one of the Premier League’s most compelling promoted sides.
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