But which former Sunderland players, managers, coaches and staff members are still working in football having departed Wearside? Here, we take a look at 40 ex-Sunderland figures still working in football and the media - and their (in some cases) surprising job titles! Take a look below:
17. Simon Grayson
Former Sunderland manager Simon Grayson is the current head coach of Indian Super League club Bengaluru. Photo: Lewis Storey
18. John O'Shea
John O'Shea was recently part of Wayne Rooney's backroom staff at Birmingham City but left the club after the appointment of former Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray. Photo: Gareth Copley
19. Julio Arca
Former Sunderland man Julio Arca was appointed at South Shields as the club's manager last summer but has since been sacked and his looking for his next role. Photo: Pete Norton
20. Paul Thirlwell
Former Sunderland man Paul Thirlwell is now assistant manager at Harrogate Town. Photo: Tony Marshall