Southampton great Jose Fonte takes Sunderland coaching post in Premier League | OneFootball

Jose Fonte, the former Southampton captain, has taken a Premier League coaching role with Sunderland, joining Regis Le Bris' staff. According to Sainstmarching.com, the 42-year-old steps into the dugout after ending his playing career.

Fonte, an instantly recognisable figure at St Mary's, made 288 appearances for the Saints, even featuring in League One. He retired with Casa Pia at the end of the 2025/26 season.

A natural organiser and former Southampton skipper, he has long been viewed as a leader by team-mates, while Ronald Koeman highlighted his importance during the club's rise. He is considered to add top-level experience and strong energy, with hopes he can thrive behind the scenes.

The move comes amid a broader wave of ex-Saints on the touchline. Adam Lallana, currently in charge of the club's under-21s, was floated as a candidate if Tonda Eckert had been dismissed by Dragan Solak, although Solak kept faith with the German. Kevin Phillips has also worked in non-league, recently managing AFC Fylde.

He will coach in the Premier League next season, with Sunderland set for the Europa League after a remarkable first season back in the top flight. If his transition goes smoothly, Fonte could move towards management, and some on the South Coast might even see a prospective future Southampton boss.

Source: Sainstmarching.com