Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar – Predicted lineup and team news

Sunderland are set to welcome European competitors for the first time in over 50 years as they face AZ Alkmaar in their opening Europa League match of the season at the Stadium of Light, scheduled for Wednesday, September 16th at 8pm BST. The Black Cats have had an inconsistent run in domestic competitions, securing two wins, one draw, and two losses in their most recent five matches.

In the Premier League, Sunderland bounced back from their opening defeat by Ipswich Town with a 1-0 win over Fulham and a 1-1 draw against Brentford. They also defeated Hull City 1-0 in the EFL Cup, but lost 2-0 at home to Arsenal last weekend. For their European debut, Sunderland will field a largely untested squad, with manager Régis Le Bris making several changes during their most recent domestic cup match.

The availability of left-back Reinildo Mandava is a significant boost for the hosts, as his suspension does not apply to European fixtures. However, Sunderland will be without key midfielder Habib Diarra, who is recovering from a hamstring injury, and winger Romaine Mundle, who is sidelined with a long-term knee issue. Additionally, players Chemsdine Talbi, Jocelin Ta Bi, Melker Ellborg, Alan Browne, and Aji Alese are unable to participate due to not being on the official squad registration for the competition.