By George Collins – 8th November 2025
The Black Cats have been a revelation to the Premier League this season after their promotion to the topflight for the first time in nearly a decade. In the last few seasons, newly promoted teams have found it hard to gather any sort of form when bridging the gap, however Sunderland are currently occupying a European spot after snatching a late equaliser against table topping Gunners. In this piece I will go into further detail as to why they have adapted to the league with ease and some of their standout performers.
Unbeaten at Home
Having only lost two league games this season, which came away at Old Trafford and Turf Moor, the Stadium of Light has been used as a stomping ground to gather momentum. They have managed to notch up a 60%-win rate at home, gathering 11 out of their 19 points.
Working hard off the ball
One of the main characteristics of this Sunderland team is the solid shape they hold throughout games and their willingness to do the dirty work. Over the course of the season so far, they are averaging 336 passers per game, which is the 16th in the league. The primary formation used by Sunderland is 5-4-1 due to its structure, and this is shown by the map below showing each player’s average positions on the pitch. As you can clearly see, the shape is very narrow and concise, not leaving many gaps to play through the team.
Granit Xhaka Resurgence
There have been multiple standout performers, but the signing of Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer has really changed the way Sunderland play. The former Arsenal man came as a shock signing but has been integral to this club’s growth. A hard-working football with grit, determination but also incredible technical qualities has been engulfed with love by fans. Averaging 9.41 recoveries per 90, the highest in the squad shows his determination to win the ball back when lost; this sort of experience is what has stood out in his performances. Even though his off the ball work is what stands out, his on the ball work should not be undervalued, averaging nearly 14 forward passes per 90, he is also the teams attack starter controlling the game.
Set Piece Threat
Set pieces have become a trend recently in football and Sunderland have become no less. One of their tools is the use of the long throw, perfected by Mukiele, averaging 1.52 headed shots per 90. His long throws have struck fear into many teams this season and have become a genuine threat every time he winds it up. The ability to launch the ball into the box from near enough anywhere in the opposition half has become very useful. Another key threat is the heigh and presence of Dan Ballard in the box; he has made 8 first contacts already this season, the most by any player across the league.
