Sunderland welcome Brentford to the Stadium of Light on Saturday, with head coach Régis Le Bris desperate to halt a two-game losing streak.
After a fantastic opening-day win, defeats in the league and cup have brought the newly-promoted side back down to earth, and this is a crucial home fixture to regain momentum.
To do so, they will have to overcome a poor historical record, having never beaten Brentford in a competitive fixture.
Sunderland vs Brentford – Predicted lineup and team news
Sunderland team news
Régis Le Bris is grappling with a severe defensive injury crisis. Defensive rock Daniel Ballard was injured early in the defeat at Burnley and has now been ruled out until after the international break. He joins Aji Alese, Dennis Cirkin, and Luke O’Nien in a crowded treatment room.
👊 RLB on Nordi Mukiele:
‘He gives us good options. He is versatile and has connected with the group quickly…’ pic.twitter.com/qwE7TRdPyq
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) August 29, 2025
The absences will force a reshuffle at the back. New signing Nordi Mukiele, who featured in the midweek cup tie, is set to be handed his full Premier League debut, potentially at right-back, with Jenson Seelt partnering Omar Alderete in the centre.
In midfield, the team will be built around the experience of captain Granit Xhaka. Despite the team’s struggles last week, he completed a club-record 93 passes, and his control will be vital.
Sunderland predicted Lineup
Sunderland predicted XI: Roefs; Mukiele, Seelt, Alderete, Reinildo; Diarra, Xhaka, Sadiki; Talbi, Mayenda, Adingra.
When is Sunderland vs Brentford?
The Premier League fixture takes place at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, 30th August 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm BST.
How to watch Sunderland vs Brentford?
Due to the 3pm Saturday blackout, this match will not be broadcast live in the UK. Highlights will be shown on BBC’s Match of the Day.
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