Sunderland return to the Stadium of Light after an opening-day defeat, and Regis Le Bris has made three changes with Brian Brobbey leading the line. Fulham arrive with a heavily-rotated side of their own — five regulars missing — and Alvaro Arbeloa’s men were picked apart…
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Sign inSunderland host Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday, 30 August 2026 at the Stadium of Light, with both sides aiming to build on contrasting opening‑day fortunes. The Black Cats travelled to Ipswich Town in their first match, while Fulham fell 3‑2 to Chelsea in a lively west London derby under new boss Álvaro Arbeloa.
Sunderland have concerns over centre‑back Omar Alderete and right‑back Nordi Mukiele, with manager Régis Le Bris giving updates on both ahead of the fixture. The hosts are expected to line up with Roefs in goal, a back four of Mukiele (if fit), Ballard, Alderete (if fit) and Reinildo, and a midfield trio of Sadiki, Xhaka and Le Fee behind a front three of Hume, Brobbey and Angulo.
Fulham are without club captain Tom Cairney, who is nursing an injury that should keep him out until mid‑October, while centre‑half Joachim Andersen begins the season serving a suspension. Arbeloa otherwise has a near full‑strength squad. Leno starts in goal shielded by Castagne, Cuenca, Bassey and Robinson. Berge and new signing Shea Charles anchor midfield, with Chukwueze, Smith Rowe and Kevin supporting striker Gonzalo Garcia.
Fulham gave Chelsea a scare in their opening game at Craven Cottage but ultimately lost 3‑2. Goals from Garcia and Kevin gave Arbeloa’s side a 2‑1 lead before late Chelsea goals turned the match. The performance showcased the fluency of Fulham’s revamped attack, with Chukwueze and Smith Rowe offering width and creativity, though defensive lapses proved costly.
Le Fee is Sunderland’s chief creator, gliding between midfield and attack and looking to release Brian Brobbey early. Charles, a summer arrival at Fulham, brings energy and bite to the holding role and will be tasked with disrupting those supply lines. Whichever player dictates the tempo in the centre could steer the result.
Both sides will be eager to secure a first win of the season before the September international break interrupts the early rhythm of the campaign.
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