Sunderland vs Manchester City – Predicted lineup and team news | OneFootball

Sunderland host Manchester City at the Stadium of Light while they aim for a historic upset.

Sunderland enter 2026 sitting seventh and aiming to protect their unbeaten home record. However, Manchester City arrive at the Stadium of Light with six straight wins. The Black Cats rely on a strong defence that has frustrated top teams. They have already held Arsenal and Aston Villa to draws on Wearside this term. Fans expect another resilient display as Régis Le Bris tries to stop the champions.

The manager must navigate a thin squad due to the Africa Cup of Nations departures. Injuries to key defenders also test the team, but Luke O’Nien returns. His versatility is vital as Sunderland look to stay compact against Erling Haaland. The hosts hope to exploit any fatigue in the City ranks after the holidays. If they survive the pressure, Brian Brobbey offers a dangerous outlet on the counter.

Sunderland Team News

Régis Le Bris manages a severely thinned squad for this New Year’s Day test. Key defender Dan Ballard remains out as he recovers from a recent injury. Consequently, he missed the 1-1 draw with Leeds and stays sidelined today. Furthermore, the Africa Cup of Nations has claimed several first-team regulars. Arthur Masuaku and Reinildo are both away on international duty. This leaves the manager with limited options in the defensive areas.

Meanwhile, midfielders Noah Sadiki and Chemsdine Talbi have also departed for the tournament. Habib Diarra and Bertrand Traoré are also reaching the knockout stages with their respective nations. In contrast, the hosts welcome back Luke O’Nien from a three-match suspension. His return is timely because the squad lacks experienced leaders. Le Bris will likely ask Simon Adingra to provide the creative spark from the wing. Additionally, Granit Xhaka will anchor the midfield against his former rivals.

Sunderland Predicted Lineup

Sunderland predicted XI: Roefs; Cirkin, Mukiele, Hume; Le Fée, Geertruida, Xhaka, Adingra, Rigg, Adingra; Brobbey

When will the match kick off?

The Premier League fixture takes place at the Stadium of Light on Thursday, 1 January 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 GMT.

How to watch Sunderland vs Manchester City?

The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League. Coverage starts at 19:45 GMT.

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