SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 29: Nordi Mukiele of Sunderland runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Bournemouth at Stadium of Light on November 29, 2025 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Sunderland heads to the South Coast on Saturday following an impressive derby win.
Régis Le Bris’ team defeated Newcastle United 1-0 last weekend, rising to 8th place in the Premier League. This marks the best start for a promoted team since 2008. However, Sunderland is facing challenges due to the Africa Cup of Nations.
Key players have left the squad, which is testing their depth. Still, their defense has been strong, with goalkeeper Robin Roefs being the leading shot-stopper in the league this season. He will play a vital role as Sunderland tries to maintain their unbeaten streak.
Régis Le Bris is dealing with significant player losses due to AFCON. Chemsdine Talbi, Noah Sadiki, Arthur Masuaku, and Bertrand Traoré are unavailable. However, midfielder Habib Diarra is expected to play one last game before joining Senegal. Reinildo Mandava is also expected to start at left-back before heading to Mozambique.
In defense, Luke O’Nien is suspended, leading to a likely partnership between Dan Ballard and Omar Alderete. In midfield, Granit Xhaka will add experience next to Romaine Mundle. Up front, Brian Brobbey will be the main striker, supported by Enzo Le Fée and Ian Poveda.
Sunderland predicted XI: Roefs; Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Mandava; Mundle, Xhaka; Poveda, Le Fée, Ba; Brobbey
The Premier League match is set for Saturday, 20 December 2025, at the American Express Stadium, kicking off at 3:00 pm GMT.
The match will not be shown live in the UK due to the Saturday 15:00 blackout rule. Highlights will be available on BBC’s Match of the Day.
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