Xhaka has played an important role for Leverkusen over the past two seasons, making 99 appearances and helping the team win their first Bundesliga title in 2023-24 under the leadership of Xabi Alonso. Now, Xhaka wants to return to the Premier League, and he is interested in joining Sunderland, a team that recently got promoted.

According to reports, new Sunderland manager Erik ten Hag is a major reason why Xhaka wants to leave Leverkusen. Ten Hag is reshaping his team ahead of the new season, and Xhaka believes he can help Sunderland avoid relegation with his experience and skills. He has played 225 Premier League games and has 17 goals and 24 assists to his name.

However, Xhaka's departure is a challenge for new Leverkusen manager Erik ten Hag, who has already lost two key players, Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, to Liverpool. Ten Hag needs to find a replacement for Xhaka and help the team adjust to the new season.

The situation is complex, but one thing is clear: Xhaka wants to join Sunderland, and it's up to the two clubs to work out the details.