"Starting with the hosts, while Sunderland might have only made their Premier League return this season, the Black Cats have rightfully received a string of plaudits from across England's elite. Gaining a reputation for their rugged approach, Regis Le Bris' men find the mood in their camp at a red-hot high. Opening the midweek fixtures sat in seventh-place and with their sights set on mounting a genuine European charge in 2026, Sunderland will be relishing another heavyweight battle on Thursday night."
"Securing an iconic 1-0 victory against arch-rivals Newcastle on December 14th, Le Bris' side have suffered just a single defeat from any of their previous six consecutive Premier League appearances. However, falling to a routine 3-0 drumming when they travelled to the Etihad last month, the Black Cats will be more than aware that they have a major challenge on their hands here."
Manchester City will travel to Sunderland aiming to extend their title charge and open 2026 strongly. Sunderland sit seventh and have earned plaudits for a rugged approach under Regis Le Bris, entering the fixture after six Premier League matches with only one defeat and a notable 1-0 win over Newcastle. Sunderland lost 3-0 at the Etihad last month, indicating a tough challenge remains. Injury concerns include Dan Ballard and several players absent for AFCON. Simon Adingra and Granit Xhaka have made immediate impacts for Sunderland. Manchester City arrive in good form after a late 2-1 victory away at Nottingham.
Read at Soccer News
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