Spotted: Granit Xhaka throws toys out the pram after what happened in Everton vs Sunderland

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Granit Xhaka was at the centre of controversy after Sunderland’s dramatic FA Cup shootout win over Everton, reacting angrily to being substituted late in normal time. The Sunderland captain had been one of the standout performers, scoring in the penalty shootout and helping his side knock Everton out following a 1-1 draw and 3-0 win on spot-kicks.

The article describes how Xhaka, fiercely competitive and visibly frustrated, “threw his toys out the pram” when manager Régis Le Bris decided to replace him as Sunderland looked to see out the game. Xhaka’s reaction reportedly included animated gesturing towards the bench and an obvious show of displeasure as he left the pitch, in stark contrast to the jubilation of his teammates at full-time.

His behaviour is framed against his long-standing reputation as a fiery character, going back to previous flashpoints in his career where his temperament has been questioned. The piece suggests that, despite his maturity and leadership role at Sunderland, moments like this show the emotional edge that has always been part of his game.

At the same time, the article acknowledges that Xhaka had been instrumental in getting Sunderland into that position, underlining his importance to Le Bris’ side and the influence he has brought since arriving at the club. The incident is portrayed less as a dressing-room crisis and more as a reminder of the fine line Xhaka treads between passion and petulance.

The overall tone is that Sunderland’s victory and Xhaka’s key contribution will be the lasting story of the tie, but his touchline tantrum is another notable entry in the catalogue of combustible Xhaka moments that continue to follow him around English football.