Regis Le Bris breaks silence on AFCON concerns after Sunderland signings
Sunderland have turned heads this summer amid the transfer activity that has unfolded at the Stadium of Light.
Nobody was quite sure exactly how the Black Cats would approach the Premier League, but they are certainly having a go.
One pattern that has emerged is the signing of African players, with five players from the continent through the door.
Habib Diarra is Sunderland’s most expensive ever signing at £30million and will be among those who could be missing during the African Cup of Nations.
Le Bris speaks out as Sunderland sign African players
Diarra was the first African player to arrive on Wearside this summer despite being wanted by Leeds United.
Since then, several more have arrived in the North East, with Simon Adingra the latest to join Sunderland.
| Player | National team |
| Habib Diarra | Senegal |
| Noah Sadiki | DR Congo |
| Reinildo Mandava | Mozambique |
| Cemsdine Talbi | Morocco |
| Simon Adingra | Ivory Coast |
Given how many African players have joined the Black Cats, some have spoken about the African Cup of Nations.
The 35th edition of the tournament is due to take place in Morocco and will be held from 21 December to 18 January.
Originally planned for mid-2025, the competition was pushed back to avoid clashing with the FIFA Club World Cup.
Le Bris has been priming his team during pre-season and discussed AFCON when speaking to the Sunderland Echo (21 July).
The Frenchman said: “Obviously, we know [what could happen].
“At the same time, the market is the market and you can’t always do exactly what you want, about the African Cup, about younger players or more mature players… whatever it is. I think that in the end, we are going to have a competitive squad.
“I think even with this, we are going to have depth in our squad. It’s needed. We don’t know how long they will be gone; it will depend on the results. At the same time, I think the depth of the squad we will have will help to manage this situation.”
AFCON no issue if Black Cats continue to strengthen
While AFCON is often brought up as a topic during the season, Sunderland can plan accordingly.
Of course, there is no knowing just how long players will be away for, but the Wearsiders cannot sell themselves short.
What the Black Cats must do is ensure they have multiple options in every position so they are prepared for all eventualities.
Defence is an area that needs to be bolstered, especially given the number of injuries in that position.
Loic Bade is the latest centre back to be linked with a move to the North East, while there is interest in Jhon Lucumi.
Bearing in mind how proactive Sunderland have been this summer, they will likely ensure they are ready for when AFCON arrives.
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