Five Sunderland writers see a promising but uneven 2026-27 start: over five league games, the side have created chances and attacked more freely, but lost to Ipswich and played a 5-3 match at Manchester City. They also began the Europa League with a win.
The contributors describe a demanding opening schedule that included Brentford, Arsenal and Manchester City. They praise new arrivals Kevin Danso and Thomas Meunier for settling quickly, while also noting Enzo Le Fée’s form and Malick Fofana’s progress. Defensive errors and missed chances remain concerns; Phil West says Sunderland need more threat from the wings and less reliance on Le Fée.
The roundup also notes a League Cup victory over Hull and a home win over AZ Alkmaar. Owen Sara says the three-week international break gives the squad a rest and manager Régis Le Bris and his staff time to work on tightening the defence while maintaining the attacking style.
