Few would have imagined Sunderland AFC being here today. After back-to-back relegations in 2017 and 2018, the club's fall from grace felt endless. Fast-forward to October 2025, and the Black Cats are suddenly one of the Premier League's brightest stories. Their recent 2-1 triumph over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, which was reported by Softfootball , wasn't just a win it was a statement that Sunderland are no longer here to make up the numbers.
Speaking after that game, as reported by Softffoball, defender Chemsdine Talbi said they knew they could do the job, and they showed it . That quiet confidence says everything about this new Sunderland: fearless, well-drilled, and united under head coach Regis Le Bris.
Their story has been building quietly. Promotion from League One came in 2022 under Alex Neil, but things really changed when Le Bris arrived in 2024. He brought a clear identity of high pressing, bold football, and faith in young players. In May 2025, that belief paid off when Sunderland edged Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final, sealing their long-awaited return to the top flight.