The Black Cats capped the 2025/26 campaign with a 2-1 win over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light on the final matchday to earn a 7th-place finish. It is the first time they have qualified for Europe since lifting the FA Cup in 1973, and the visit of AZ Alkmaar will be welcomed on Wednesday.
·‘We want to go strong in both competitions’
Sunderland have made a solid start to the new season. After a 2-1 loss to newly promoted Ipswich Town, they beat Fulham 1-0, drew 1-1 with Brentford and pushed reigning champions Arsenal to their limits in a 2-0 defeat on the weekend. Though the result was disappointing against the Gunners, it was a performance that built belief for Le Bris that his men have the quality to continue to compete.
"I'm proud to be part of bringing Sunderland back to European competition. It's a privilege and shows the momentum of the club. We are progressing step by step, and it's very positive for our fans and our community. It's a special moment.
“[Trai Hume and Luke O'Nien being players from the club's League One days] shows they are really well connected with the identity of the club. We are talking about the key values and key pillars, but also behaviours. You want to ...