MusaSunderland’s impressive start to life back in the Premier League has seen them reach the top seven after 18 games, earning widespread acclaim for a newly-promoted side.
Manager Régis Le Bris has overseen memorable victories, such as the derby win against Newcastle United and a triumph at Chelsea. This strong form comes as no surprise to Leeds United’s Daniel Farke, who recently stated he expected nothing less.
The foundation of their well-balanced squad was laid by astute summer spending, which blended experienced arrivals like Granit Xhaka, Nordi Mukiele, and Reinildo with promising young talents including Noah Sadiki, Robin Roefs, and Chemsdine Talbi.
With that successful window behind them, Sunderland feel no pressure to be overly active in January. Le Bris highlighted the difference between the transfer periods, noting the winter market is more about opportunistic moves than structured planning, as players switching clubs mid-season carry no guarantee of fitting in quickly.
Currently on a run of just one defeat in six matches—a loss to their next opponents, Manchester City—Sunderland also boast an unbeaten home record they will aim to protect. While linked with Rio Ave’s Andre Luiz for attacking reinforcements, out-of-favour Arthur Masuaku could depart.
With several key players away at the Africa Cup of Nations, it remains to be seen whether the Black Cats will dip into the January market to bolster their squad.
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