Sunderland have the correct culture to target Champions League qualification, says Keith Wyness. The Black Cats are working on the principle of 'no limits but no targets.'

What does this mean for Sunderland?

This approach does not place additional pressure on manager Regis Le Bris. Sunderland recently finished 7th in the Premier League, with 54 points from 38 games, and a recent form of WWDDL.

Current context

As of 29 Jun 2026, Sunderland's league standing is: | Category | Value | | --- | --- | | League standing | 7th in Premier League | | Points | 54 | | Recent form | WWDDL | | Goals scored | 42 | | Goals conceded | 48 | | Title race | 41 points behind leaders Coventry | | Last result | Sunderland 2-1 Chelsea (2026-05-24) | | Recent form (last 5) | 4W-1D-0L |

The challenge of losing Granit Xhaka

Losing Granit Xhaka could seriously hamper Sunderland's long-term progress. The 33-year-old midfielder has agreed personal terms to reunite with Xabi Alonso at Chelsea. Keith Wyness stressed that the Black Cats must find a way to 'mitigate' his potential exit.

What comes next for Sunderland?

Sunderland will head to the USA for their pre-season tour, where they will face Liverpool, Leeds, and Wrexham. This tour is expected to be lucrative for the club, with a potential £2.5million windfall. The Sunderland hierarchy has been praised for arranging the tour, which could provide huge long-term benefits in terms of sponsorship opportunities.