Sunderland second-bottom after fourth straight league defeat

Sunderland are second-bottom of the Premier League after a fourth consecutive defeat, with defender Nordi Mukiele saying the team may have become “arrogant” after last season’s successful return to the top flight.

The 2-0 loss at Bournemouth on Sunday left Sunderland with four points from their first seven league matches, compared with 11 at the same stage last season. They have won twice in Europe, but lost both league games immediately after their Europa League outings.[1]

“Maybe because we became arrogant, this is what I think,” Mukiele told Sky Sports, adding that Sunderland were “not good enough”. Head coach Régis Le Bris said the performance was “below the level” and “not acceptable”.[1]

Sunderland’s defensive errors proved costly against Bournemouth. Kevin Danso was sent off in the 17th minute after bringing down Evanilson, who was through on goal, and Omar Alderete’s weak backpass later gave the striker a chance to score. Sunderland have made five errors leading to goals in the league this season, more than any other side, according to Opta.[1]

The team have conceded 14 goals and scored six. Their three shots against Bournemouth were all off target. They have also faced Manchester City, Arsenal and Brighton, making for a difficult opening run.[1]

Former Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given questioned whether Sunderland’s squad was deep enough to manage European and domestic commitments. He said they had “overachieved” by qualifying for Europe and argued that the Premier League remained the priority. Sunderland signed 15 players for £161m after promotion in 2025 and spent about £60m on five recruits this summer. Striker Brian Brobbey is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury.[1]

Mukiele said the team needed to work harder in training and believed they could return to last season’s form. Sunderland’s record in Europe offers a contrast to their league struggles, but they remain second-bottom after seven matches.