Granit Xhaka To Start? | 4-3-3 Predicted Sunderland Starting Lineup Against Brentford | OneFootball

Sunderland’s Premier League match at the Stadium of Light on Saturday is set to be a big one for them. After a memorable 3-0 win over West Ham last week, they lost 0-2 away to Burnley and would like to put that result behind them as just another bad day. Régis Le Bris’ side will be looking to make the most of playing in front of their home fans, as Sunderland’s army of supporters always puts pressure on the opposition. Against a disciplined side like Brentford, Sunderland will be aiming to get hold of the ball from the start and showcase the potential of their new players.

Defence:

Sunderland are expected to field a 4-3-3 formation. Although injuries to Dan Ballard, Luke O’Nien and Aji Alese have posed a challenge for the team, the coach has lined up a number of options to balance the backline. Robin Roefs will be responsible for the goalkeeper position.

Trai Hume will contribute with his energy and overlapping runs at right full-back, while Reinildo Mandava will provide balance to both defence and attack on the left. Nordi Mukiele and Omar Alderete will be seen as the centre-back duo, who will try to stop Brentford’s strikers with their physical strength and aerial dominance. Jenson Seelt will also be present on the bench as an alternative option.

Midfield:

The midfield will be very important for Sunderland in this match. In a 4-3-3 formation, Granit Xhaka will stand deep with his experience to strengthen the defence. Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki can be seen playing with him, who bring different qualities to the midfield.

BURNLEY, ENGLAND – AUGUST 23: Granit Xhaka of Sunderland arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Burnley and Sunderland at Turf Moor on August 23, 2025 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)

Diarra’s agility and tireless running will provide a constant energy to the team, while Sadiki’s ability to break up play and win the ball back can disrupt Brentford’s passing moves. This trio will not only be able to pick up the ball, but also control it and get it to the forwards at the right time. With Xhaka’s experience and the pace of the other two, Sunderland will hope to dictate the game from midfield.

Attack:

The attacking line is expected to be Sunderland’s biggest strength. Eliezer Mayenda, who scored his first Premier League goal of the season, will start as a centre-forward and will be expected to score the most goals. On the right wing, Chemsdine Talbi’s pace and dribbling skills will help break down the opposition defence, while on the left, Simon Adingra will create chances with his creativity and sharp moves.

This front three will look to spread the Brentford defenders wide and create space in the penalty box. New signings like Marc Guiu can be used as a last-minute substitute by coach Régis Le Bris. This attacking setup for Sunderland increases their chances of winning at home, especially when the entire stadium is standing with the team.