Sunderland faces Leeds United at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, December 28, 2025. The match presents a significant challenge for Sunderland, which strives to maintain its unbeaten home record.
Sunderland Team News
This season, Sunderland has demonstrated impressive resilience. However, the upcoming match is marred by a wave of international call-ups for key players. Manager Régis Le Bris will have to contend with several absences due to the Africa Cup of Nations.
- Reinildo Mandava
- Arthur Masuaku
- Noah Sadiki
- Chemsdine Talbi
- Bertrand Traoré
These international commitments leave Sunderland’s squad with limited depth, particularly affecting their defense and midfield positions. In light of these challenges, Lutsharel Geertruida will likely partner with Granit Xhaka in a holding midfield role. Fortunately, Simon Adingra remains with the squad after missing out on the Ivory Coast selection, providing crucial creativity in attack.
Defensive Lineup
Daniel Ballard and Omar Alderete are expected to anchor the defense, preparing to face Leeds United’s prolific forward, Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Sunderland Predicted Lineup
The anticipated starting XI for Sunderland includes:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Roefs |
| Defender | Mukiele |
| Defender | Ballard |
| Defender | Alderete |
| Defender | Hume |
| Midfielder | Xhaka |
| Midfielder | Geertruida |
| Midfielder | Rigg |
| Midfielder | Le Fée |
| Forward | Adingra |
| Forward | Brobbey |
Match Details
The Premier League fixture is scheduled for December 28, 2025, with kick-off at 14:00 GMT. Fans can catch the live broadcast in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League, with coverage beginning at 13:00 GMT.
