In a deeply personal and emotional message shared earlier this week, Granit Xhaka, captain of Sunderland AFC in the English Premier League, and his wife Leonita Lekaj, have stunned supporters with heartfelt news about their family.
The couple โ who have been open about valuing privacy and family unity โ thanked fans across the football community for their โkindness, empathy and continued support.โ In their statement, they requested privacy at this time as they focus on their family during what they described as an โintensely emotional moment.โ Fans and teammates alike have responded with overwhelming encouragement and understanding.
The announcement comes amid a strong season for Xhaka on the pitch, where he has rapidly cemented his role as a leader since joining Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen in July 2025. He was named club captain ahead of the 2025โ26 Premier League campaign, bringing Premier League and international experience to the newly promoted side. ๏ฟฝ
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Off the field, Granit and Leonita already share three daughters โ Ayana, Laneya, and Neyana โ with their third child born in March 2025. Xhaka previously took time away from national team duties to be present with his family at that moment. ๏ฟฝ
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Sunderland supporters have rallied around their captain on social media and in stadium chants, appreciating both his contributions on the field and his human side off it. Many fans also highlighted Xhakaโs leadership during Sunderlandโs FA Cup run and Premier League fixtures this season, where he has not only anchored midfield but provided emotional inspiration to teammates. ๏ฟฝ
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While the couple has not disclosed specifics of the personal news out of respect for their privacy, the football communityโs outpouring of support โ from Sunderland fans to fellow players across the Premier League โ has been immediate and heartfelt.
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