Premier League 2025-2026: Sunderland-Leeds, the likely lineups

This crossover has not been seen in the English top flight since 2003. Since then, both teams have experienced complicated phases, with several seasons spent in the Championship. Among the matches on the calendar for the 18th day of the Premier League, which began on Boxing Day, Sunday also includes the showdown between Sunderland and Leeds United, scheduled for 3 p.m.

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The two teams are separated by eight points in the standings. Ahead are the Black Cats, who are even eyeing the European zone, although the ranking remains very compact. Further back are the Whites, called above all to achieve a quiet salvation as soon as possible, a natural goal for a newly promoted team.

The overall record is 91 and smiles on Leeds, ahead with 40 wins against Sunderland’s 33, while there are 18 draws. After complicated seasons between League One and faded promotions, Sunderland has managed to climb back up with a solid and progressive project, reaching a momentary sixth place in the Premier League in its first year in the top flight after nine seasons away.

The Sunderland team has been able to climb back up with a solid and progressive project, reaching a momentary sixth place in the Premier League in its first year in the top flight after nine seasons away.

Leeds has also recently returned to the top league, but its start has been more labored than that of its rivals. In recent weeks, however, the Whites seem to have found continuity: in fact, they are coming off four consecutive useful results, with two wins and two draws.

Probable lineups

Sunderland (4-2-3-1): Roefs; Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Hume; Xhaka, Geertruida; Rigg, Le Fee, Adingra; Brobbey. Coach: Le Bris.

Leeds (3-5-2): Perri; Rodon, Bijol, Struijk; Bogle, Aaronson, Ampadu, Stach, Gudmundsson; Calvert-Lewin, Okafor. Coach: Farke.