Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has offered an update on Granit Xhaka's fitness after the midfielder was forced to leave the pitch during his team's 1-0 Premier League victory over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light.

According to a report by ESPN on Sunday, November 8, 2026, the Switzerland international suffered a suspected calf injury just four minutes into the encounter, raising concerns about his availability for Sunderland's upcoming fixtures.

Xhaka was making his 50th appearance for the Black Cats but was unable to continue after experiencing discomfort during the warm-up. The midfielder subsequently had to be withdrawn, with Jules Ahoka introduced as his replacement in an early change that disrupted Le Bris' plans.

His departure represented a significant setback for Sunderland, considering the important role he plays in the team's midfield and his influence as a leader within the squad. The Swiss international has become an important figure for the club, making his early withdrawal particularly concerning for the manager.

Nevertheless, Sunderland managed to cope with his absence and produced a determined performance to claim all three points against Xabi Alonso's Chelsea.

Enzo Le Fee proved decisive in the contest, converting a penalty in the 36th minute to give the hosts the lead. Sunderland successfully protected their advantage for the remainder of the match, securing a valuable 1-0 victory while leaving Chelsea frustrated by their inability to find an equaliser.

Speaking after the encounter, Le Bris confirmed that Xhaka appeared to have sustained a problem involving his calf. However, the Sunderland manager explained that the club had not yet determined the full extent of the injury and would need further assessments before providing a clearer prognosis.

"It looks like a calf injury, but we don't know the extent. He felt it in the last sprint of the warm-up."

The uncertainty surrounding Xhaka's condition is an unwanted concern for Sunderland, particularly with the international break approaching. His potential absence could affect the team's midfield options, given his experience, leadership and importance to Le Bris' tactical plans.

Fortunately for the Black Cats, the upcoming break is expected to provide the squad with almost two weeks without a competitive fixture. That period could give Xhaka valuable time to recover if the injury proves relatively minor, although his return will depend on the results of medical examinations and his response to treatment.

Sunderland will therefore be monitoring the midfielder's condition closely before making decisions about his recovery and availability for their next Premier League assignment. Further medical assessments should provide a better understanding of whether he will require an extended period on the sidelines or can return after the break.

For Le Bris, retaining Xhaka's services will be an important consideration as Sunderland look to build on their impressive victory over Chelsea. The manager will be hoping that the injury is not serious enough to rule out his influential captain for a lengthy period.

Although Sunderland secured an important result against Alonso's side, Xhaka's early withdrawal has left the club waiting anxiously for clarity about his fitness and the extent of the suspected calf problem.