Granit Xhaka To Start? | Sunderland’s Predicted 4-3-3 Starting Lineup Against Bournemouth | OneFootball

Sunderland prepare to face Bournemouth in a tough Premier League match. Régis Le Bris manages a frustrating injury list before kick-off. A muscle injury sidelines Carlos Soler until early June 2026. Justin Kluivert also faces a long absence until mid-April. Hamstring issues make Liam Doak and Jenson Cook major doubts for the game. Meanwhile, Akinmboni’s lack of fitness thins the squad options further. Despite these setbacks, Sunderland still have quality in every department. Le Bris will send out the 4-3-3 system that has worked well lately.

Bournemouth vs Sunderland: Black Cats’ Predicted Starting Lineup & Team News

The Defence:

Robin Roefs starts in goal. He has shown he is a calm and reliable presence at the back. Lutsharel Geertruida starts at right-back. He brings plenty of experience from his time at Feyenoord. His overlapping runs give Sunderland an extra attacking threat on the right wing. Daniel Ballard and Omar Alderete form the central defensive partnership.

They combine physical strength with smart positioning. On the left, Trai Hume offers both energy and discipline. He often moves inside to stop counter-attacks. This back four gives Sunderland a solid base. They will need it against a Bournemouth side that press high up the pitch.

The Midfield

SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 22: Granit Xhaka of Sunderland reacts during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Fulham at Stadium of Light on February 22, 2026 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Granit Xhaka anchors the midfield. He uses his massive experience to dictate the play. He also wins second balls consistently. Habib Diarra plays alongside him. Diarra provides the energy and forward runs needed to stretch the opposition.

Noah Sadiki completes the trio in a box-to-box role. This role requires constant running and awareness. These three players stay close together. They move the ball quickly from back to front. Their ability to keep the ball will help Sunderland control the game against Bournemouth’s press.

The Attack

Wilson Isidor leads the line as the main striker. He is direct and strong in the air. He makes life difficult for defenders for the full ninety minutes. Nilson Angulo plays on the right. He uses his pace and dribbling skills to pull the play wide. This creates space in the middle.

Enzo Le Fee drifts in from the left. He has great technique and an eye for a goal. He is a constant threat to the keeper. These three forwards move and finish in different ways. They have enough quality to trouble any Premier League defence.