10 players set for Sunderland’s Ipswich opener, one starting spot up for grabs

Sunderland’s Premier League opener at Ipswich Town is imminent, and Régis Le Bris has most of his XI settled, with one wide berth still undecided.

According to Sunderland Echo, Robin Roefs remains first choice in goal, while Nordi Mukiele and Omar Alderete might not be ready to start at Portman Road. Luke O’Nien looks set to feature and Thomas Meunier is in line on the right.

Sunderland are pursuing a left back and a left-sided centre half, but any arrival is likely to be eased in, leaving Dan Ballard and Reinildo poised to start.

Le Bris signalled that Habib Diarra will need patience, and despite Chris Rigg’s excellent pre-season, Xhaka, Sadiki and Le Fée have earned the chance to continue in midfield.

A right winger remains a target, though any new addition would probably begin on the bench, with Hume expected to keep his right-sided role for balance. The left flank is open, with Nilson Angulo pushing, but Chemsdine Talbi’s Premier League experience might count.

Up front, Brian Brobbey’s 2026 form makes him a near certainty, while Wilson Isidor is set to stay and should offer impact minutes.

Predicted XI as things stand: Roefs in goal, a back four of Meunier, Ballard, O’Nien and Reinildo, a midfield of Xhaka, Sadiki and Le Fée, plus Hume, Talbi and Brobbey. Bench as it stands: Ellborg, Mukiele, Alderete, Diarra, Rigg, Angulo, Isidor, Tutierov and Ta Bi.

Source: Sunderland Echo

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