Régis Le Bris outlines Sunderland’s summer plan for Ahmed Abdullahi | OneFootball

Régis Le Bris says Sunderland still believe Ahmed Abdullahi can thrive at the club, though a summer loan currently appears the likeliest route.

According to Sunderland Echo, the 21-year-old joined from Gent on deadline day in summer 2024, then had groin surgery on a pre-existing issue and did not feature competitively that campaign. He has had further setbacks this season but impressed for the U21s, shining in last week’s 2-1 Premier League Cup final loss to Burnley.

Le Bris rates his talent but notes that injuries have disrupted training rhythm and chemistry, so he thinks a different step is probably needed before any Premier League push. Abdullahi was close to a loan to Angers last summer before financial problems on the French side ended talks. A similar move is likely to be on the agenda again for next season.

The head coach has also indicated that Jocelin Ta Bi is likely to remain with the main squad on Wearside next season after his January arrival, as short-term development may be better served in-house.

Le Bris views the winger as raw but rare in profile, with limited senior experience, including only brief time in Israel. He believes minutes can come from the bench, allowing gradual exposure without regular starts, an approach he says suits wide players more than other positions. For now, that is the plan for Jocelin.

Source: Sunderland Echo