Sunderland’s first European campaign in 53 years has begun well, with two wins and a draw in their opening three Europa League league-phase matches. Their Premier League form, however, has been far less encouraging, prompting concern that the extra demands of Europe may be complicating their season.
After nine league games, Sunderland have one win and six defeats and sit in the bottom three, two points from safety. They have scored seven goals, including two penalties, and have not scored in the first half in seven of those matches. Three defeats have also ended with Sunderland reduced to 10 men.
The contrast with last season is stark. After returning to the Premier League, Sunderland finished seventh, and their win at Chelsea in their ninth game left them second in the table. This campaign, they are preparing to host Dinamo Zagreb before welcoming Chelsea on Sunday.
The club’s hierarchy is not believed to be considering an immediate change of manager. Le Bris, who took charge in July 2024, has credit for winning promotion and securing European qualification. Sunderland have also reached the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, where they are due to face Crystal Palace.
But the team’s performances have led to questions about the manager’s longer-term position. After a 3-1 loss at Coventry, captain Granit Xhaka said Sunderland needed to show more “courage”. Defender Nordi Mukiele had earlier described the side as “arrogant”. Xhaka also said he did not know exactly what was behind the team’s problems.
Former Sunderland player Nedum Onuoha said the club had exceeded expectations by finishing in the European places last season, but questioned whether Le Bris would be viewed as a long-term manager. Football journalist Julien Laurens said he was concerned that Sunderland were not finding solutions to their struggles.
The Europa League schedule is one possible factor. Sunderland have at least eight European games, and their three league matches following European fixtures have brought two defeats and a draw. Laurens noted that playing on Thursday and Sunday leaves less time for training and creates a different routine from last season, particularly for players without previous European experience.
Sunderland spent £161m on 15 players after promotion in 2025, while their more recent recruitment totalled £60m for five players. They retained Xhaka and forward Brian Brobbey, who has yet to score since returning from a hamstring injury. Xhaka and Mukiele, both important to the team’s defensive record last season, have also been identified as being below their previous levels.
With most of the Premier League season still to come, Sunderland have time to improve their position. Their immediate focus is on Dinamo Zagreb, followed by the visit of Chelsea, as Le Bris looks for a response in the league.
Sources: BBC Sport.