This summer, former Arsenal midfielder Xhaka joined newly promoted Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen. The 33-year-old Swiss performed well in the new season. He played 7 games and provided 3 assists. In an interview with the Sunderland Echo, Xhaka was asked about the three opponents he was most looking forward to facing.

Xhaka said: "This question is not difficult to answer, and Newcastle is the first to bear the brunt. I know what this game means to Sunderland, to the fans and to the club. I have experienced many derbies in my career, but I heard that this game may be the craziest one in my career. I hope to go on the court to feel it and enjoy this moment."

"Second This is my old club where I spent seven wonderful years. To this day, I still keep in touch with the coaches, players and club staff, and I am very grateful to them. "

"The third team is of course Tottenham, because I also played in the north London derby. This is my ranking, from first to third."