Roy Keane Crowns Sunderland Star as Premier League’s Best Player in his Position for 2025-26

Roy Keane Crowns Sunderland Star as Premier League’s Best Player in his Position for 2025-26

In a season defined by standout individual performances, former Manchester United captain and Sky Sports pundit Roy Keane has delivered a definitive verdict: Sunderland’s Granit Xhaka is the Premier League’s premier midfielder for the 2025-26 campaign.Speaking on a recent broadcast, Keane left no room for debate. “Granit Xhaka has been the best in his position this season, full stop,” he declared. “Pure dominance in every single match. He dictates tempo, wins battles, and makes the game look simple. That’s leadership. That’s quality.”

Xhaka’s journey to this acclaim has been remarkable. After leaving Arsenal and enjoying success abroad, the Swiss international made a surprise move to Sunderland in the summer of 2025. Many questioned whether the 33-year-old could adapt to the intensity of a newly-promoted side fighting for European spots. Instead, he has become the heartbeat of the Black Cats’ midfield, anchoring their rise with metronomic consistency.

Statistically, Xhaka has dominated. He leads the league in progressive passes and ball recoveries among central midfielders, while maintaining an impressive 92% pass accuracy. His ability to break lines with precise distribution has unlocked Sunderland’s attack, and his physical presence has shut down opposition threats week after week. Opponents speak of the difficulty in bypassing him; teammates credit him with setting the standard in training and matches.

Keane, never one for hyperbole, highlighted Xhaka’s “old-school” qualities: tenacity, positional intelligence, and the rare capacity to control matches without flashy tricks. “He doesn’t need headlines,” Keane added. “He just does the dirty work at the highest level, and that’s why Sunderland are where they are.”Xhaka’s influence extends beyond statistics. His leadership has helped integrate younger talents at the Stadium of Light, fostering a balanced squad that punches above its weight. Fans have embraced him as a cult hero, chanting his name loudly during home games.

As the season has ended, Xhaka’s form during the final lap of the season shows no signs of slowing. Finally Sunderland secured European football, one thing is clear: Roy Keane’s endorsement reflects a broader consensus. Granit Xhaka has been the Premier League’s most reliable and dominant midfielder in 2025-26 — a masterclass in consistency and leadership.