Sunderland is set to make its return to European football for the first time in 53 years as the Black Cats prepare to host AZ Alkmaar in a Europa League fixture. The club secured qualification last season following a remarkable seventh-place finish in the Premier League, marking a significant milestone in their recent resurgence.

Regis Le Bris, Sunderland’s manager, described the occasion as a "privilege" and highlighted the club’s ongoing progress. “It shows the momentum of the club. We are progressing step after step,” Le Bris said. He noted the significance of the European campaign for the team, the supporters, and the local community, characterizing it as an exciting new chapter following the hard work exhibited last season.

Among the squad’s experienced European competitors is captain Granit Xhaka, who has twice finished as a runner-up in the Europa League with previous clubs Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen. Xhaka acknowledged the prestige of playing in Europe and outlined the team’s ambition. “You play to be in Europe or the Champions League, this is part of our challenges,” he said. While emphasizing the Premier League remains the club’s primary focus, he referred to their Europa League participation as a valuable opportunity that the team is aiming to capitalize on.

Xhaka also reflected on his personal goals, noting his desire to win a Europa League final after two previous losses. He stressed the importance of maintaining the standards that earned them success last season without overextending. “We’ve got quality, we know where we need to be better, and where we need to do the same as last season,” Xhaka added. He described European football as an unmatched stage to compete against some of the best teams on the continent.

Le Bris emphasized the club’s intention to remain competitive in both the Premier League and the Europa League. He acknowledged the increasing demands on the squad, underlining the need for depth to sustain performance across multiple competitions. Sunderland recently suffered a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal but showed determination, and they face Manchester City in their upcoming league match on Sunday.

“The players are looking forward to these kinds of fixtures,” Le Bris said, noting the squad’s freshness early in the season and their readiness for the challenges ahead. “We want to go strong in both competitions. It’s important for our fans and for the club as well.”