Granit Xhaka clashes with West Ham fans in the stands as Sunderland crash to disappointing defeat

The match was even halted in the final stages while the exchange played out. Though the fixture resumed, Xhaka appeared to continue venting his frustrations immediately after the final whistle.

At one point, the Sunderland midfielder appeared to gesture for a fan to come down and address him directly - with staff members and stewards forced to step in.

It is currently unclear what was said to spark the heated incident. West Ham, however, are unlikely to care too much.

The Hammers had gone into the game hoping to build on their impressive 2-1 victory away at Tottenham last time out.

And they produced a sensational display to record their first home win of the year, while also making it three victories on the trot.

Granit Xhaka absolutely fuming 😂! #WHUSUN pic.twitter.com/sO7ZelNKqk

— The Final Whistle (@Rufus_45) January 24, 2026

Nuno Espirito Santo's team secured victory following first-half goals from Crysencio Summerville, Jarrod Bowen and Matheus Fernandes.

Brian Brobbey netted for Sunderland in the 66th minute, though his effort was merely a consolation.

It means West Ham are now just two points behind Nottingham Forest in the standings, with Sean Dyche's men due to face Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Sunday (2pm).

Ally McCoist and Chris Sutton were quick to praise the Hammers as they took a giant step towards Premier League surival.

McCoist, commentating on TNT Sports, said: "West Ham thoroughly deserved the victory, especially in the first half. A massive, massive win."

Sutton added: "West Ham, what a strange team they go to Tottenham then back it up today. These back to back wins will have others looking over their shoulders and they'll have to liven up."

Fans on social media, meanwhile, gave their thoughts on the Xhaka incident.

One user called for the former Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen star to be suspended, saying: "These West Ham fans literally laughing in Granit “Hard Man” Xhaka’s rattled face. I expect a big ban from @FA_PGMOL for the player for inciting violence by offering fans outside for a fight."

Another said: "Does anyone know what was the beef about? Xhaka looked pretty heated."

And a third quipped: "Fans arguing with Granit Xhaka on the bench, two players squaring up to eachother on the goal line as a shot rebounds off the crossbar...

"WEST HAM ARE BACK!"

West Ham will be aiming to continue their resurgent form when they lock horns with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next Saturday (5.30pm).

As for Sunderland, the Black Cats will have nine days of rest before doing battle with Burnley at the Stadium of Light on Monday, February 2 (8pm).