Sunderland kick off 2026 against Manchester City at the Stadium of Light on Thursday night

Régis Le Bris has made one change to his Sunderland XI to face Man City on Thursday night.

Eliezer Mayenda has been rewarded for his lively cameo off the bench against Leeds United over the weekend, and is recalled to the starting XI for the first time since the 2-1 win over Brentford in August. Chris Rigg drops to the bench as a result, having started the last two games from the bench.

It’s not yet clear what formatuon Sunderland will play. Mayenda looks likely to replace Rigg on the right flank, having played there at times this season for his Spanish youth side. However, Sunderland could yet revert to the back five that they have used on occasions against the division’s best this season by dropping Lutsharel Geertruida into defence.

Sunderland XI: Roefs; Hume, Mukiele, Alderete, Cirkin, Geertruida, Xhaka, Le Fee, Adingra, Mayenda, Brobbey

Subs: Patterson, Jones (H), O'Nien, Isidor, Rigg, Mundle, Tutierov, Neil, Hjelde

Manchester City have meanwhile been handed a major boost after winger Jeremy Doku was passed fit to return to the matchday squad. Having missed the last three games with an injury, he returns to the bench for this game.

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Régis Le Bris’s programme notes and message to Sunderland fans ahead of Man City test

“The point [against Leeds] meant we ended 2025 unbeaten at home in the Premier League, which is something we can take real pride in,” Le Bris wrote.

“It shows how difficult the Stadium of Light has become for visiting teams and reflects the collective effort of everyone involved - the players, the staff, and of course, you, our supporters. Everything we do is built together, and your support plays a huge part in that.

“Today, we face one of the very best teams in the country. Manchester City possess outstanding quality throughout their squad, and we know we will be required to deal with many different scenarios throughout the game. To compete, we must work extremely hard, stay focused in every moment, and show a real desire to win.”

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