League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Breaking News

Xhaka prioritizes Premier League ahead of Sunderland's European debut

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 2:50 PM

Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Xhaka prioritizes Premier League ahead of Sunderland's European debut

Summary

Granit Xhaka stated that Sunderland's focus is on the Premier League, as they prepare for their first Europa League match in 53 years against AZ Alkmaar. Xhaka expressed excitement about the match, calling it a significant challenge and acknowledging the historical context of Sunderland's return to European competition. He emphasized the importance of mindset and energy within the team's dressing room. The Europa League match marks a pivotal moment for Sunderland as they aim to build on their recent Premier League success where they finished seventh last season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Sunderland faces AZ Alkmaar in Europa League opener
•Xhaka emphasizes Premier League remains the top priority
•This match marks Sunderland's first European fixture since 1973
•Team excited to compete at European level after recent success
•Xhaka aims for a deep run in the tournament after previous final losses

Latest Updates

2:50 PMYahoo Sports — Xhaka says Premier League is priority ahead of first European clash in 53 years

What they're saying

"
Granit Xhaka revealed that the Premier League is the priority ahead of Sunderland’s first European clash in 53 years.Sunderland are set to face AZ Alkmaar in their first Europa League match of the s...
— Yahoo Sports

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