Sunderland's journey in English football has always been defined by its huge fanbase and a rich history of both top-level triumphs and challenging periods. From Tom Watson to Regis Le Bris, Sunderland managers are not only remembered for their tactics or individual brilliance, but also for their role in shaping the club's identity and creating a sense of spirit of hope at the Stadium of Light. In recent history, the Black Cats have consistently fought to reclaim their place amongst the English top division, competing across the Premier League, EFL Championship, FA Cup, and the League Cup. After enduring a challenging period outside the top flight, including a spell in League One, Sunderland has made an incredible comeback to the Premier League, all thanks to one appointment - Régis Le Bris. The Frenchmen brought a sense of direction and stability to the club, ultimately guiding the team to the top.
Let's now know who the Sunderland manager is and his career, background, and achievements. Sunderland manager history is quite rich, with Sunderland AFC managers who have shaped the club's identity through eras of triumph and challenge. Tom Watson stands as the most notable figure, having been the first manager of Sunderland Football Club and guiding them to three First Division titles. Bob Kyle continued his way, adding another First Division title in 1913, while Johnny Cochrane won the 1936 league title and guided the club to its first FA Cup victory in 1937. Bob Stokoe etched his name in the club's history books by guiding a second division Sunderland to a historic FA Cup triumph in 1973. Later, Peter Reid guided the club to two top-flight promotions in the 1990s, which was huge for a side fighting with financial instabilities. Most recently, Sunderland new manager, Régis Le Bris, guided the club to top-flight football after an eight-year gap.
Régis Le Bris, the 49-year-old French national, now Sunderland AFC manager, has had a playing career spanning across clubs in France before transitioning into coaching. Born on December 6, 1975, his footballing journey began in the youth divisions in France as a defender. He spent the majority of his career in France, most significant period being his time in Stade Rennais. He was part of the senior squad from 1994 to 1999, making 34 appearances. Following that, he moved to Stade Lavallois in 1999, where he made 57 appearances across three seasons. After departing Laval, he had a brief stint with Belgian club KSK Renaix in the 2002-03 season, making 5 appearances, before officially retiring in 2002. Internationally, Régis Le Bris has also earned caps for France at the youth level. He has represented France at the U15, U16, and U17 levels. After retiring, Le Bris transitioned into coaching, where he primarily focused on youth and technical roles within French football. His first major role was as the Head of Academy Coaching at Stade Rennais from 2004 to 2012. Following this, he moved to FC Lorient, where he served as the Academy Manager from 2012 to 2022 and as B Team Manager from 2015 to 2022. His impressive performance at youth levels landed him the First Team Manager role, which he held from June 2022 to June 2024. Régis Le Bris was appointed as the Manager of Sunderland Football Club on July 1st, 2024. He led the side to 4th place in the championship, ultimately securing Premier League football by defeating Sheffield United in the playoff finals, marking the club's return to the top flight after eight years, cementing his place amongst the greatest Sunderland managers.
