Bayer Leverkusen have taken a firm stance on the future of Swiss international midfielder Granit Xhaka amid reports that the former Arsenal star is eager for a return to the Premier League where newly-promoted Sunderland await with open arms.
Just recently, Xhaka’s agent Jose Noguera, revealed that the midfielder has already agreed personal terms with Sunderland. Noguera further expressed “hope” that Leverkusen will “respect” Xhaka’s wish to depart the Bay Arena in search of a new challenge.
However, Leverkusen have bit back via new head coach Erik ten Hag and sporting director Simon Rolfes. Having already seen two key players, Jeremy Frimpong and Florian Wirtz, depart for the Premier League, Die Werkself are not keen on letting go of more crucial members of the squad.
The agent can say whatever he wants, but this club has already let three players go,” Ten Hag told Bild. “We won’t be letting any more leave – that’s not possible. It would damage the structure and culture of the squad.
“It’s very clear – Granit is a leader. He signed a five-year contract and still has three years left. He’s too important for us to let go.”
Echoing Ten Hag’s sentiments, Rolfes added: “I’ve repeatedly said that Granit is an important leadership figure. The coach and I are very much aligned when it comes to this.
“We’re generally in constant dialogue with our players. In the end, it’s always a three-party situation. Granit still has three years left on his contract – fundamentally, a transfer can only happen if all three parties agree.”
Xhaka has been indeed important for Bayer Leverkusen since his arrival in the summer of 2023. He was a crucial part of that historic Bundesliga and DFB Pokal triumph in 23/24. His departure will certainly come as a huge blow for the former Bundesliga champions.
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