Sunderland’s strongest XI by Premier League minutes after historic 2025/26 | OneFootball

Sunderland capped a remarkable 2025/26 by finishing seventh and reaching the Europa League for the first time, prompting a look at their strongest Premier League XI by minutes.

Promoted via a Championship play-off final win over Sheffield United, Regis Le Bris’ side were tipped to struggle. Sunderland Echo sets out how a shrewd summer, adding Robin Roefs, Granit Xhaka and Brian Brobbey, underpinned the campaign.

The opening day set the tone as Dan Ballard, Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda all scored in a comfortable victory over West Ham United. A defeat at Burnley a week later proved one of few setbacks.

Momentum grew with wins over Chelsea and Nottingham Forest, plus a league double against Newcastle United. Draws with Manchester City, Liverpool, Aston Villa and eventual champions Arsenal reinforced their top-half charge.

The minutes yield this XI. GK Robin Roefs, 3,150, with Trai Hume, 3,040, Nordi Mukiele, 2,802, Dan Ballard, 2,149, and Omar Alderete, 2,936. Midfielders Granit Xhaka, 2,903, Noah Sadiki, 2,896, and Habib Diarra, 1,408, plus Chemsdine Talbi, 1,565, Enzo Le Fee, 2,936, and Brian Brobbey, 1,934.

Source: Sunderland Echo