After years in the wilderness, Sunderland have returned to the Premier League with intent.
Having already defied expectations by winning promotion, the Black Cats made sure their return was backed by serious financial investment.
The new arrivals included Habib Diarra from Strasbourg, Simon Adingra from Brighton, Chemsdine Talbi from Club Brugge, Noah Sadiki from Union SG, Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen, and Nordi Mukiele from PSG.
For a club looking not just to survive but to compete, Sunderland needed players who could combine technical quality with the grit and work rate that defines their fanbase.
Few would have predicted such an impressive start.
With three wins from their first five matches, Régis Le Bris’ side sit fifth in the Premier League – an extraordinary beginning that has silenced talk of a relegation fight, at least for now.
This weekend’s trip to Old Trafford will provide a serious test, but Sunderland have already shown that they are capable of defying expectations.
Remembering Seb Larsson at Sunderland
For many supporters, this new Sunderland project has triggered memories of players who once carried the red and white in the Premier League.
In particular, Seb Larsson, one of Sunderland’s most reliable and technically gifted players of the modern era.
Larsson, signed on a free transfer from Birmingham City in 2011, became known for his relentless energy, vision, and above all, his set-piece quality.
He scored on his debut against Liverpool with a stunning volley and went on to make 203 appearances, scoring 14 goals and providing 21 assists before leaving when the club were relegated.
Arsène Wenger once described him as “maybe the best in the league as a free-kick-taker”, a reputation that endeared him to fans and opponents alike.
One of the new guard, meanwhile, is beginning to play a similar role for this Sunderland side.
While not yet at Larsson’s level of influence, his ability to dictate tempo, carry the ball, and press with intensity has been pivotal.
His profile – both statistically and stylistically – suggests he can grow into that same kind of heartbeat role for the Black Cats.
Sunderland star taking on the Larsson role
Only 25 years old, Enzo Le Fee already looks like Sunderland’s most important long-term signing.
Initially joining on loan from Roma last season, he became a permanent addition this summer for £19m, after playing a crucial role in their promotion campaign.
He made 18 Championship appearances, scoring once and registering three assists, and played the full 95 minutes in the famous 2-1 play-off final win over Sheffield United at Wembley.
This season, he has taken the step up to the Premier League with composure. This comes as no surprise for a player who was once described as a “sensational player” and someone who “does not belong in the Championship” by Sky Sports pundit Don Goodman.
In his first five appearances, he has already opened his account, scoring a late equaliser against Brentford before Sunderland sealed victory with a stoppage-time winner.
Matches Played
5
Goals
1
Shot-Creating Actions
7
Progressive Carries
2
Progressive Passes
6
The numbers show why he is so highly regarded.
Compared to midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues, he ranks in the 89th percentile for progressive carries (2.30 per 90), the 85th percentile for successful take-ons (1.00 per 90), and the 85th percentile for tackles (2.87 per 90).
He also sits in the 99th percentile for blocks (2.30 per 90), underlining his defensive work rate and commitment.
Such a well-rounded profile has drawn comparisons to the likes of Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid, as per FBref’s similar players model – both players capable of blending defensive grit with forward drive.
For Sunderland, this balance is invaluable.
He is not just a technical player; he is the engine that allows the team to press, recover, and transition quickly.
Having already made three appearances for France, Le Fee has international pedigree to match his domestic form.
Sunderland fans will be hoping that his career trajectory continues to rise in the same way Larsson once did – creating opportunities, and chipping in with decisive moments.
While the headlines this summer focused on Sunderland’s spending spree and record transfer figures, it may well be that Le Fee – signed before the money poured in – emerges as the player who truly makes the difference.
Much like Larsson before him, he has the tools to define an era at the Stadium of Light.
