Starting XI: Is This How Sunderland Will Line Up Against AZ Tonight?

Brentford, England - September 5: Granit Xhaka of Sunderland showed up at the stadium before the highly anticipated Premier League 2026/27 match between Brentford and Sunderland at Gtech Community Stadium. The players are undoubtedly excited for this monumental occasion, and it appears that team selection is the main focus of the report. Although there have been discussions about rotation, it seems that the starting lineup will be Le Bris's full strength team.

Goalkeeper Robin Roefs will be in goal against a team from his own country, eager to make a strong impression. In defense, Nordi Mukiele, Kevin Danso, Dan Ballard, and Reinildo are expected to be present. Ballard and Danso have been showing great improvement, with Ballard possibly moving to the right-back position and Reinildo to the left. Mukiele may be sidelined due to a recent injury, possibly causing Alderete to step in for a rest, but if everyone is fit, this will be the starting defense.

In midfield, Nilson Angulo, Enzo Le Fee, Granit Xhaka, Noah Sadiki, and Malick Fofana are likely to start. There may be a shift in strategy, with Angulo playing on the right and Fofana on the left, to better utilize the atmosphere and take the game to AZ. Angulo has been performing well in recent matches, while Xhaka, Le Fee, and Sadiki are expected to maintain their usual roles in the center.

Sunderland has another chance to showcase a Dutch player, Brian Brobbey, who has proven himself against a club from his homeland and is expected to score tonight.