Le Bris Commits to Sunderland Until 2028 After Historic Top-Flight Return
Sunderland AFC have secured the future of head coach Regis Le Bris, who has signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2028. The deal comes just months after the Frenchman masterminded the Black Cats’ dramatic return to the Premier League, ending an eight-year absence from England’s top tier.
A Triumphant First Season in Charge
Appointed in June 2024 following his departure from French side Lorient, Le Bris made an immediate impact at the Stadium of Light. In his debut season, he guided Sunderland to a fourth-place finish in the Championship, setting the stage for a thrilling play-off run.
The campaign culminated in a memorable 2-1 victory over Sheffield United at Wembley Stadium, where young talent Tommy Watson delivered the decisive goal to seal promotion. The win marked Sunderland’s first return to Premier League football since 2017.
A Strong Bond with Club and Fans
The connection I have with the staff, players, and supporters has been natural,” he said. “There’s a collective ambition here, a clear energy and intent to keep pushing forward – and that’s exactly what we’ll need for the challenges ahead.
Reflecting on his journey so far, Le Bris highlighted the unity within the club as a driving force behind their success.
Sunderland will kick off their 2025/26 Premier League campaign at home against West Ham United on August 16.
Summer Strengthening Signals Premier League Intent
The club has already made its ambitions clear with eight new signings during the summer transfer window. Among the headline arrivals is experienced Swiss international Granit Xhaka, who brings top-level pedigree from his time at Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen.
With reinforcements in place and Le Bris’ long-term future confirmed, Sunderland are preparing to make a serious statement in their top-flight return.
Backing from the Boardroom
Regis’ new contract is recognition for the outstanding work he’s done,” Ghisolfi said. “But more importantly, it reflects our belief in the project we’re building. We’re not just aiming to compete – we want to define Sunderland as a Premier League club in every sense.
Sunderland’s Director of Football, Florent Ghisolfi, praised the decision to extend Le Bris’ contract, describing it as a step toward establishing a long-term identity in the Premier League.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter Begins
With a fresh contract, a bolstered squad, and the momentum of promotion, Regis Le Bris and Sunderland are entering the 2025/26 season with renewed confidence. The journey back to the Premier League was hard-fought – now, the challenge is staying there and thriving.
