Phil Smith

Sunderland Echo writers James Copley and Phil Smith preview Sunderland’s 2026/27 campaign, highlighting Enzo Le Fée as the player to watch and Chris Rigg, Habib Diarra and Chemsdine Talbi as potential breakout performers. They are optimistic about the continuity provided by Régis Le Bris, the retention of Granit Xhaka and the team’s improving play, but warn that injuries, squad depth and the demands of Thursday-Sunday European football could hinder the league campaign. Sunderland are tipped to finish between eighth and 14th or sneak into the Premier League’s top half, while a Europa League knockout-stage run—and potentially the quarter-finals—is viewed as realistic.

Sunderland are reportedly close to agreeing a deal with Toulouse for 20-year-old Dayann Methalie, with the transfer fee expected to be about €30 million including add-ons. The proposed structure includes an initial €28 million payment and up to €2 million in bonuses. Methalie is keen on the move and has been omitted from Toulouse’s pre-season squads, while Sunderland remain confident but have not yet finalised the agreement. He would become the club’s second summer signing after Thomas Meunier.

Sunderland finished pre-season with a 2-1 comeback win over Stade Rennais, but Thomas Meunier is a major doubt for the Premier League opener at Ipswich Town because of back pain. Régis Le Bris said Omar Alderete and Nordi Mukiele are progressing toward availability. He also explained that Sunderland needed to raise their intensity after a passive first half, using the improved second-half performance as a reminder ahead of the demanding opening match.

Sunderland came from behind to defeat Stade Rennais 2-1 in their final pre-season match at the Stadium of Light. Esteban Lepaul gave the visitors a first-half lead from the penalty spot, but Brian Brobbey equalised after capitalising on a poor headed backpass, and Trai Hume completed the comeback. Sunderland grew increasingly dominant in the second half, with Régis Le Bris’s substitutions providing greater pressing intensity and quality; the hosts created further chances and were considered worthy winners.

Sunderland return to the Stadium of Light for their final pre-season friendly against Stade Rennais, with the match offering players a final opportunity to impress manager Régis Le Bris before the new campaign begins. The club's upcoming schedule includes an opening fixture against Ipswich Town and a Europa League campaign, following a 2–1 victory over Chelsea that secured European qualification.

Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has made one change for the final pre-season match against Stade Rennais, with Chemsdine Talbi replacing absent defender Thomas Meunier and Trai Hume moving to full-back. Meunier is believed to have suffered a minor training knock, while Nordi Mukiele and Omar Alderete remain unavailable with minor injuries. Romaine Mundle returns after an ankle issue and is close to agreeing a new contract.

Sunderland are close to extending Romaine Mundle’s contract despite earlier expectations that he might leave. Régis Le Bris has consistently backed the winger through injuries, rejected interest in a January move and gave him Premier League opportunities, believing his dribbling and attacking ability can develop into regular top-level output. Mundle’s homegrown status adds useful squad depth, while his improved fitness makes the new deal a relatively low-risk decision with significant potential upside.

Sunderland’s pursuit of Timothy Weah from Marseille has not progressed, with the winger reportedly content at the French club despite its need to raise funds. Sunderland also remain interested in Sporting’s Geny Catamo, although a substantial valuation gap and his €60 million release clause make a deal difficult. Lutsharel Geertruida is expected to leave RB Leipzig after Sunderland declined to trigger their purchase option, with Ajax and PSV Eindhoven interested in a loan. Former Sunderland target Jhon Lucumí appears close to joining Juventus from Bologna.

Former Sunderland left-back Dennis Cirkin has joined Queens Park Rangers as a free agent ahead of the new Championship season. The 24-year-old made 127 appearances for Sunderland and helped the club win promotion from League One and the Championship. Cirkin said he was pleased to return to London and believed QPR’s ambition, along with head coach Julien Stéphan’s values, made the club the right choice. He may not feature immediately after missing pre-season. Cirkin also issued an emotional farewell to Sunderland, thanking the club, city and supporters for their support.

Sunderland have confirmed that 22-year-old defender Leo Hjelde has joined Belgian top-flight club KV Mechelen on a permanent transfer. Hjelde made 30 appearances for Sunderland, including 17 during their 2024/25 Championship promotion season, and has signed an initial three-year contract with an option for a further year. Sunderland reportedly retain a sell-on fee as part of the deal. His departure is part of sporting director Florent Ghisolfi's effort to reduce the squad and wage bill, following exits involving Anthony Patterson and Arthur Masuaku, while Abdoullah Ba is nearing a move to Peterborough United.

Sunderland began preparations for the new campaign with a 2-0 victory over RC Lens in a day marked by strong footballing and historical ties between the clubs. Sunderland’s largely under-21 side faced a strong Lens reserve team, with Tom Proctor scoring and Melker Ellborg making a key save after Sunderland missed two penalties. The match was played against the backdrop of Lens’s mining heritage, passionate supporters and solidarity with Sunderland’s North East community. Régis Le Bris appeared confident in his squad while ruling out a move for Wilson Isidor, and new signing Thomas Meunier expressed his enthusiasm about joining Sunderland. Despite poor crowd-management at the stadium entrance, the occasion reinforced the sense of anticipation surrounding Sunderland’s European campaign.

Sunderland defeated RC Lens 2-0 in the 1906 Trophy, with goals from Trai Hume and Wilson Isidor after a closely contested first half. Lens head coach Dino Toppmöller praised Sunderland’s quality but said his team pressed too early, became too passive defensively and made errors on both goals. He also said Lens needed greater composure and better use of space in possession, despite seeing positives in their preseason preparation.

Sunderland's 2-0 victory over RC Lens offered a highly encouraging final test before the new season, demonstrating control, defensive solidity and improved second-half clinical finishing. The result also justified Régis Le Bris's patience in the transfer market, although further squad depth remains necessary. Luke O'Nien is likely to replace the injured Omar Alderete against Ipswich Town, while the right side appears settled around Trai Hume and Thomas Meunier; the left-wing position remains open between Nilson Angulo and Chemsdine Talbi. Jocelin Ta Bi also showed enough resilience and work rate in the under-21 defeat to suggest he could contribute as an impact player. The trip further strengthened the positive relationship between Sunderland and Lens and provided an ideal start to Sunderland's European preparations.

Thomas Meunier made an encouraging first Sunderland appearance in a 1-0 win over RC Lens, playing 45 minutes at right-back while Nordi Mukiele remained sidelined. He showed composure, height, technical quality and quick passing, with only a nutmeg and an overhit pass standing out as mistakes. The Premier League will pose a tougher test, particularly in one-on-one situations against explosive dribblers, but Meunier's performance and leadership have strengthened Sunderland's options ahead of the opening-day trip to Ipswich.

Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris has dismissed speculation that Wilson Isidor could leave the club, insisting the striker is staying and has an important role to play. Isidor, who scored six goals last season, impressed with the opening goal in Sunderland’s 2-0 pre-season victory over RC Lens. Le Bris said the club will need a squad of 16 to 18 players ready to contribute during an expanded schedule, rather than relying only on the established starting XI.

Sunderland beat RC Lens 2-0 in their penultimate pre-season friendly, with head coach Régis Le Bris praising the team’s pressing, build-up play and squad depth. Nordi Mukiele and Omar Alderete are recovering from minor or ongoing issues and may only be fit enough for the bench against Ipswich Town, while Romaine Mundle has a minor ankle knock. Simon Adingra’s ankle injury is more serious and could keep him out for longer.

Sunderland will play two pre-season fixtures against RC Lens in France, with an academy match scheduled in the morning and the senior teams meeting at Stade Bollaert-Delelis at 3pm BST. Manager Régis Le Bris is expected to field a strong side in the second game as Sunderland prepare for the start of the Premier League season.

Sunderland secured a 2-0 pre-season win over RC Lens at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, extending their winning run to two matches. Trai Hume opened the scoring with a determined header after a cross from Chris Rigg, before Wilson Isidor added a second with a composed finish following another effective team move. Sunderland controlled much of the match, limited Lens to few clear chances and kept goalkeeper Robin Roefs largely untested. The performance gave Regis Le Bris encouragement as Sunderland continue preparations for the new Premier League season, although the team was more efficient and organised than spectacular.

Arthur Masuaku has returned to Sunderland's Academy of Light for pre-season training after a proposed move to Turkish club Konyaspor failed to materialize. With Sunderland targeting Toulouse left-back Dayann Methalie and Masuaku entering the final year of his contract, he remains likely to leave during the transfer window. Régis Le Bris has also welcomed back World Cup players Granit Xhaka, Chemsdine Talbi, Thomas Meunier and Omar Alderete, with several potentially involved in Sunderland's upcoming matches against RC Lens.

Sunderland’s 1-0 pre-season victory over Wrexham in Philadelphia was judged a reassuring performance ahead of the Premier League season, despite Wrexham’s late pressure and Sunderland’s need to improve their finishing. Nordi Mukiele scored, while Romaine Mundle, Nilson Angulo and Trai Hume missed good chances. Noah Sadiki impressed in a deeper midfield role during Granit Xhaka’s absence, and the established starting group appeared to validate Régis Le Bris’s belief that Sunderland’s opening-day team is already taking shape. Anthony Patterson also made a positive cameo, although injuries to Mukiele and Simon Adingra remained concerns and further squad additions are expected.

Sunderland ended their United States pre-season tour with a 1-0 victory over Wrexham in Pennsylvania. Nordi Mukiele scored before half-time after Sunderland controlled much of the opening hour, with Habib Diarra, Brobbey and Trai Hume also threatening. Wrexham improved after extensive substitutions and created some late pressure, but Sunderland’s defence and goalkeeper Anthony Patterson held firm. Mukiele and Simon Adingra both left the game with injuries, providing the main concern for Sunderland despite a deserved win.

Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris names a strong starting XI for the final match of the club’s US pre-season tour against Wrexham in Pennsylvania. Robin Roefs makes his first appearance of pre-season, while Noah Sadiki and Habib Diarra return to the starting lineup after limited action against Leeds United. Enzo Le Fee is left out with a slight knock, and Wilson Isidor remains absent for personal reasons. Le Bris says Sunderland have built on last season’s strong team culture and defensive foundation, although a heavy training load may leave the players fatigued.

Sunderland are preparing to face Wrexham in the third and final friendly of their US tour in Pennsylvania. Robin Roefs is expected to make his first pre-season appearance, while Wilson Isidor, Jocelin Ta Bi and Arthur Masuaku will be unavailable. Régis Le Bris is predicted to largely retain the starting lineup used against Leeds United before making extensive changes during the match, with World Cup players potentially receiving increased minutes.

Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris says no final decision has been made on Simon Adingra’s future while the transfer window remains open. Adingra returned from Ivory Coast’s World Cup commitments and made an encouraging appearance against Leeds United after spending the second half of last season on loan at AS Monaco. He could feature again against Wrexham, but strong competition for wide positions and reported interest from several clubs mean a departure remains possible.

Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris confirmed that goalkeeper Robin Roefs will make his first pre-season appearance against Wrexham in Pennsylvania. Wilson Isidor will miss the friendly after returning to the UK for a personal matter but is expected back in training next week. Le Bris plans to use a strong starting XI before rotating players at half-time or around the hour mark, while acknowledging that a heavy training workload could leave the squad fatigued. He remains encouraged by Sunderland's improving fitness, established team culture and gradual reintegration of players returning from World Cup duty.

Sunderland AFC and hummel have unveiled the club's 2026/27 home shirt, inspired by Sunderland's 1937 FA Cup final victory over Preston North End. The shirt features the original city crest from that era, costs £65 for adults and £50 for juniors, and will be sold online and in club stores from 8am on Wednesday. The launch includes historical displays, giveaways, free parking and a US-tour-exclusive patch. Sunderland is also commissioning a Roker mural honoring 1937 goalscorer Eddie Burbanks, while the wider range includes warm-up, quarter-zip and anthem jackets. The kit will initially be sold without a shirt sponsor as talks over a principal partner continue.

José Fonte has begun work as Sunderland's new assistant coach after ending his playing career. He will focus on individual player development, set-piece coaching and supporting head coach Régis Le Bris as one of three assistants. Fonte praised the staff's welcome, Sunderland's organization and work ethic from last season, and the club's passionate supporters. Le Bris said Fonte's high-level playing experience and knowledge of European football should add a new dimension to the coaching group while preserving its effective working balance.

Sunderland are set to face Leeds United in New Jersey during their US pre-season tour. Régis Le Bris is expected to use a similar starting lineup to recent matches while gradually increasing players’ minutes, with several World Cup participants returning and Jocelin Ta Bi unavailable because of visa issues. Leeds may give Tarik Muharemović his debut after signing him from Sassuolo, but several senior players remain doubtful through injury, Noah Okafor is absent after international duty, and James Trafford is not expected to feature because his transfer is not finalized.

Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris says Jocelin Ta Bi will miss the club's United States tour after his visa appeal failed, but the player is expected to rejoin the squad the following week. Sunderland will face Leeds United in New Jersey and Wrexham in Pennsylvania, with World Cup returnees expected to feature in limited minutes. Le Bris plans to manage playing time across both matches and says the squad's cohesion, understanding and tactical development are significantly further advanced than at the same stage last season.

Bertrand Traoré is assessing his next move after Sunderland declined to extend his contract following an injury-disrupted spell on Wearside. FC Porto, Al Shabab and Nice have shown interest, while Premier League clubs are monitoring the 30-year-old winger. Sunderland are also pursuing Toulouse left-back Dayann Methalie, with reports of advanced talks and a potential £25 million package, as the club addresses defensive and wide-attacking needs.

Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris praised Enzo Le Fée's impressive start to pre-season, including goals against York City and Liverpool, and said adding greater decisiveness in front of goal could elevate the midfielder's impact. Despite Sunderland's 4-2 defeat by Liverpool, Le Bris was encouraged by the team's development and said returning World Cup players would find a squad that had established strong standards before the team faced Leeds United in New Jersey.

Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki has rejoined the squad on its United States tour after World Cup commitments and aims to improve his goal and assist contributions in the 2026/27 season. He is enthusiastic about Sunderland’s first European campaign in more than 50 years and believes the strong team spirit that drove last season’s success can be repeated. Sunderland will face Leeds United in New Jersey before completing the tour in Pennsylvania.

Sunderland are in advanced talks with Toulouse over 20-year-old left back Dayann Methalie and have reportedly agreed personal terms on a potential five-year contract. A transfer package worth about £25 million is under discussion. Sunderland are prioritizing the position after Dennis Cirkin’s departure, with Arthur Masuaku expected to leave and Reinildo entering the final year of his contract. Manager Régis Le Bris said the club is working quietly behind the scenes to make targeted additions rather than repeat last season’s extensive recruitment.

Chelsea have abandoned their pursuit of Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka after an £8 million bid was rejected and the midfielder confirmed he would remain on Wearside. Under head coach Xabi Alonso, Chelsea are now reportedly leading the race for 36-year-old Jordan Henderson, who is expected to leave Brentford on a free transfer, and have opened talks with Brighton over Danny Welbeck. Welbeck’s potential arrival could push former Sunderland loanee Marc Guiu further down Chelsea’s squad hierarchy.