Xhaka reveals he snubbed Chelsea reunion with Alonso to chase 'big things' at Sunderland

Granit Xhaka has confirmed he rejected a summer approach from Chelsea, choosing to stay at Sunderland because he believes the club can still achieve “big things” in the Premier League and Europa League. The Switzerland international, 33, had been linked with a return to the top flight under new Blues manager Xabi Alonso, with whom he built a close bond during their time together at Bayer Leverkusen.

“For me, it was clear,” Xhaka told the Daily Mail. “I didn’t want to sign a short-term contract because I believe there is a long-term project ahead. I believe we can achieve big things again. You smell it; you have this feeling of the people when you look them in the eyes.”

Xhaka was keen to clarify that his ongoing conversations with Alonso were never about a potential transfer. “I spoke with Xabi. I speak with him nearly every day. With Xabi, with Mikel Arteta, with whoever. For me, to have this contact doesn’t mean the need to move somewhere,” he said. “I speak with them about everything, not just football. I try to take the most advice from my coaches where I believe they can bring me to the next level.”

The former Arsenal captain only joined Sunderland last summer following the club’s return to the top flight, and quickly established himself as a key figure under Regis Le Bris. His performances helped the Black Cats secure a place in this season’s Europa League — a competition that clearly factored into his decision to stay on Wearside.

With Xhaka unavailable, Chelsea moved to sign Jordan Henderson on a free transfer from Brentford. Alonso explained the rationale behind that pursuit, citing a need for greater experience within his squad. “There was plenty of talent. I was missing this composure, the minutes to go through difficult moments, this experience to know how to deal with things when things weren’t going well,” the Spaniard said.

Alonso added that Chelsea’s summer business had been guided by a desire for balance: “The right balance in physicality, the right balance in talent and experience. Nothing is perfect but we have come into a moment where we have done things in a logical way when it comes to football and now we are at a good starting point for this new project.”

For Xhaka, the decision to remain at Sunderland represents a significant statement of intent — one that underlines his belief that the club’s upward trajectory is far from over.