Sunderland Ready for Premier League Opener
Regis Le Bris confirms Granit Xhaka as Sunderland captain, highlighting his leadership skills and experience.
“His understanding of the game and leadership skills are at the highest level, it's easy to see he'll be our...”
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris expressed his excitement ahead of the Black Cats' 2025/26 Premier League opener against West Ham United at the Stadium of Light on August 16. The team hasn't played in the top division for eight years, but they earned their promotion with thrilling late playoff goals in May.
Key Players Expected to Return
Le Bris is expecting a boost with potential returns of key players Chris Rigg and Wilson Isidor for the season opener. Rigg has been dealing with a minor knock, while Isidor has been out with a thigh issue. Other players like Leo Hjelde, Aji Alese, Luke O'Nien, and Dennis Cirkin will miss the first three games, and Romaine Mundle's return is uncertain until early September due to hamstring surgery.
The team will face a challenging schedule, with notable matches against Manchester City, Liverpool, and Newcastle United in the coming months.
“Many things have developed and changed, but we have stepped up. This week, the mindset changed and we are ready to go.
“Last season was last season, it's positive to have new energy, new creativity. It's important to challenge the squad.
“The players are connected with the competition; they need challenges, a specific taste for the Premier League.”
Sunderland Faces Tricky Opener Against West Ham
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris acknowledged that the opening match against West Ham United will be a challenging test for his team. Despite the difficulty, Le Bris expressed his excitement ahead of the match, eager to see his team take on the experienced Hammers. The Black Cats will look to build on their promotion-winning momentum and make a strong start to the season.
🎙️ RLB on the return to the @PremierLeague:
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) August 14, 2025
'I am excited. Many things have developed and changed, but we have stepped up. This week, the mindset changed. We are ready to go...' pic.twitter.com/f1H0ZpmCZE
Le Bris' Excitement Ahead of the Match
“I am excited,” Le Bris told the media, highlighting his enthusiasm for the upcoming match. The French manager is aware of the challenges that lie ahead, but he is confident in his team's abilities to compete against top-tier opposition. With potential returns of key players like Chris Rigg and Wilson Isidor, Sunderland will look to make a positive impact on their Premier League return.
Granit Xhaka Appointed Sunderland Captain
Granit Xhaka has been confirmed as the new captain of Sunderland, just days before the team's season opener against West Ham United. The Swiss midfielder's leadership skills and experience are expected to play a significant role in the team's performance this season. Xhaka's appointment demonstrates manager Regis Le Bris' confidence in his ability to inspire and motivate the squad.
Le Bris Praises Dan Neil and Xhaka
Le Bris expressed his excitement ahead of the match, highlighting the potential influence Xhaka could have on the team. He also praised former captain Dan Neil, the academy graduate who stepped aside to allow Xhaka to take the leadership role. This move showcases the team's dynamics and Le Bris' trust in his players.
Xhaka, who will wear the number 34 shirt, joins a promising midfield lineup alongside players like Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki. With his experience and skills, he is expected to make a significant impact on the team.
“It's really natural because of his (Xhaka's) level, as a footballer on the grass.
“His understanding of the game and leadership skills are at the highest level, it's easy to see he'll be our captain after ten minutes on the pitch.
“For Dan (Neil), it's an opportunity to grow and he has the potential to grow. (The conversations) have been positive, they don't need to be negative.
“It's the case for Dan and other players; they're ready for the fight.”
Upcoming Fixtures
Sunderland's Premier League fixtures for the start of the season are:
- August 16: West Ham United (home) - 3 pm
- August 23: Burnley (away) - 3 pm
- August 30: Brentford (home) - 3 pm
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