Régis Le Bris outlines José Fonte’s role in Sunderland coaching team and expected impact | OneFootball

Régis Le Bris believes José Fonte’s recent elite playing career and knowledge of European football will give Sunderland’s coaching staff a fresh dimension without upsetting the current balance.

According to Sunderland Echo, Fonte began work on Monday after ending his playing days at the close of last season. The former Southampton and Portugal defender featured at multiple major tournaments and took part in numerous European campaigns.

Le Bris said he was pleased with the staff structure over the last four or five months of the 2026/27 season, when the club surged to Europa League qualification, and thinks Fonte can complement what was working. He noted the set-up has varied across the past two seasons and that finding the right blend takes time.

Fonte will work alongside Michael Proctor and Alessandro Barcherini, James Brayne on set pieces, Chief Analyst Isidre Ramón Madir and goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler.

Sporting director Florent Ghisolfi said the former centre-back brings top-level experience, energy and leadership to a staff already performing strongly under Le Bris. He believes those qualities will add value as Sunderland push forward in the Premier League and in Europe.

Source: Sunderland Echo