Sunderland vs Manchester United Match Preview: Key Availability Insights

Sunderland host Manchester United at the Stadium of Light on 9 May 2026 in Premier League action (Regular Season - 36). Sunderland sit 12th on 47 points, while Manchester United arrive in 3rd with 64 points and a strong goal difference edge.

Sunderland Availability

Sunderland face both suspension and injury concerns.

• D. Ballard (Suspension – Red Card) is sidelined.
• R. Mundle (Injury – Hamstring Injury) is sidelined.
• N. Angulo (Injury – Muscle Injury) is doubtful.
• B. Traore (Injury – Knee Injury) is doubtful.

None of Sunderland’s key creators G. Xhaka (1 goal, 6 assists) or E. Le Fée (4 goals, 5 assists) are listed, so they are expected to be available to support the hosts’ 37 league goals so far.

Manchester United Availability

Manchester United’s main issues are fitness-related.

• B. Šeško (Injury – Leg Injury) is doubtful.
• M. de Ligt (Injury – Back Injury) is doubtful.

With 11 league goals and 1 assist, B. Šeško is a top scorer for United, so his status is a potential major blow if he does not feature.

Impact Summary

Sunderland lose defensive solidity through Ballard and some attacking depth with Mundle, Angulo, and Traore affected, but retain their primary midfield creators. Manchester United risk being without their leading striker Šeško, which could trim a significant share of their 63-goal attacking output, though other major contributors like B. Mbeumo, Casemiro, Matheus Cunha, and Bruno Fernandes remain available.