Roy Keane Crowns Sunderland Star Granit Xhaka as Premier League’s Best Midfielder of 2025-26

Former Manchester United captain and renowned football pundit Roy Keane has heaped praise on Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka, boldly declaring the Swiss international the best player in his position in the Premier League this season.

Speaking during a recent Sky Sports broadcast, Keane delivered a glowing assessment of the Sunderland star, insisting that no midfielder has matched Xhaka’s influence throughout the 2025-26 campaign.

“Granit Xhaka has been the best in his position this season, full stop,” Keane stated. “Pure dominance in every single match. He dictates tempo, wins battles, and makes the game look simple. That’s leadership. That’s quality.”

The comments cap off what has been a remarkable campaign for Xhaka, whose surprise move to Sunderland in the summer of 2025 raised eyebrows across English football. After successful spells with both Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen, many questioned whether the experienced midfielder could maintain elite standards while helping a newly promoted side establish itself in the top flight.

Instead, the 33-year-old has exceeded every expectation.

Operating at the heart of Sunderland’s midfield, Xhaka has become the driving force behind the Black Cats’ impressive rise up the Premier League table. His composure on the ball, tactical intelligence, and leadership qualities have transformed Sunderland into one of the division’s most difficult teams to break down.

The statistics further strengthen Keane’s argument. Xhaka currently leads the Premier League among central midfielders in progressive passes and ball recoveries while maintaining an outstanding 92 percent pass completion rate. His ability to control possession and launch attacks from deep positions has been central to Sunderland’s success.

Beyond the numbers, Xhaka’s impact has been felt throughout the dressing room. Teammates regularly point to his professionalism and demanding standards, while opponents have struggled to find ways around his commanding presence in midfield battles.

Sunderland manager and supporters alike have praised the veteran’s influence, with many viewing him as the catalyst behind the club’s unexpected push toward European qualification.

Keane’s endorsement is likely to fuel further debate among football fans, particularly given the strong performances of several midfield stars across the league this season. However, the Irishman was unequivocal in his assessment, highlighting Xhaka’s consistency as the defining factor.

As Sunderland continue their remarkable campaign, Xhaka’s performances are increasingly being recognised as one of the stories of the season. What initially appeared to be a gamble has become one of the most inspired signings in recent Premier League history.

With the season approaching its conclusion, Roy Keane’s verdict reflects a growing consensus: Granit Xhaka is not only Sunderland’s most important player but arguably the standout midfielder in English football this year.