Sunderland sit bottom of the Premier League after nine matches, with just one win and six defeats, raising questions about whether their Europa League campaign is hindering domestic form. The Black Cats, who returned to European competition for the first time in 53 years, face Dinamo Zagreb at the Stadium of Light on Thursday before hosting Chelsea on Sunday.
Manager under scrutiny
Manager Regis Le Bris, who led Sunderland to promotion and a seventh-place finish last season, is not in immediate danger but faces growing pressure. Captain Granit Xhaka questioned the team's "courage" after a 3-1 loss at Coventry City, while defender Nordi Mukiele earlier described the side as "arrogant". Former Sunderland loanee Nedum Onuoha and French football expert Julien Laurens have expressed doubts about Le Bris's long-term suitability.
European fixture congestion
Sunderland have started well in Europe, winning two and drawing one of their first three Europa League league-phase matches, including a trip to AC Milan in December. However, they have lost two and drawn one of their three Premier League games following European fixtures. Le Bris described the situation as "growing pains" and acknowledged the demanding schedule of Premier League, Europa League, Carabao Cup quarter-finals, and upcoming FA Cup commitments.
Player form and spending
The club spent £161 million on 15 players after promotion in 2025, but only £60 million on five players this summer. Key players Xhaka and forward Brian Brobbey, who scored seven league goals last season, have struggled for form. Brobbey has yet to score since returning from a hamstring injury, and Xhaka admitted he does not know the exact problem. Sunderland have scored only seven league goals, three of which came in a 3-5 defeat at Manchester City, and have failed to score a first-half goal in seven of nine games.
With two points from safety, Sunderland hope a positive result against Dinamo Zagreb and Chelsea can lift the mood before the international break.
