Sunderland’s return to the Premier League turned out to be much more confident than many expected. Regis Le Brie’s team, who took charge of the club in the summer of 2024, quickly adapted to the demands of the elite division. The French specialist, known for a systematic approach and attention to the physiology and mental component of the game, has built a team that bets on discipline and control of space, not on adventurous football.

After 18 rounds, Sunderland are seventh, with seven wins, seven draws and just four defeats. The team concedes an average of one goal per match and looks particularly reliable at home, conceding just one goal in their last three matches. An important role in the construction is played by Enzo Le Fe, who has already managed to become the brain center of the team. Captain Granit Xhaka adds balance and experience, while a pragmatic style allows Sunderland to challenge even top opposition, as evidenced by draws with Arsenal, Liverpool and Brighton, as well as a derby victory over Newcastle.

Manchester City approaches the match as one of the main favorites of the season. Pep Guardiola’s side are second in the table with 13 wins in 18 rounds and the league’s best attack with 43 goals scored. The City have won eight matches in a row in all competitions and continue to show impressive consistency, especially in the management of the game.

Recent results have only underlined City’s form, with wins over Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Sunderland in the first round (3-0) achieved without too much risk, thanks to ball control and patience. Ryan Sherky is in excellent form, Tijani Reinders and Bernardo Silva dictate the pace in midfield, while Erling Holland is traditionally the main threat to any defence. Importantly, City have conceded just 17 goals this season, one of the best in the league, but still significantly worse than title rivals Arsenal (11).