
The Football Faithful
·23 agosto 2025
Burnley vs Sunderland – Match preview and team news

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Yahoo sportsThe Football Faithful
·23 agosto 2025
The second weekend of the Premier League season presents a pivotal clash for two newly-promoted clubs as Sunderland travel to Burnley full of confidence after a stunning opening-day win.
The hosts, however, are already under pressure. Scott Parker’s side must bounce back from a heavy defeat at Tottenham to avoid an early slide.
Burnley are aiming for their first points and goals of the campaign in front of a home crowd. Meanwhile, Sunderland enter the match second in the table after their impressive start. The atmosphere at Turf Moor should be electric for what promises to be a competitive match between two squads seeking early-season stability.
Scott Parker is expected to make tactical changes following the 3-0 defeat at Tottenham, with a switch to a more attacking formation likely. This could see Jacob Bruun Larsen and Marcus Edwards brought into the starting eleven to add more creativity and attacking threat.
However, the manager’s plans are hampered by injuries. Zeki Amdouni and Jordan Beyer are both ruled out, while Bashir Humphreys is a major doubt. Lyle Foster could lead the line, with Josh Cullen captaining the side from midfield.
Head Coach Régis Le Bris has received a major defensive boost ahead of the trip to Burnley. Jenson Seelt has been declared fit to play after being forced off with an injury scare during last weekend’s 3-0 victory over West Ham.
In further positive news, new signing Nordi Mukiele is in contention for his debut after arriving from Paris Saint-Germain.
Le Bris confirmed the versatile defender has trained with the squad but will make a late decision on whether to include him this weekend or wait for Tuesday’s cup tie. Elsewhere, Arthur Masuaku is also available for the first time this season.
Burnley were comfortably beaten 3-0 by Tottenham in their opening game. Scott Parker’s side struggled for cohesion and looked disorganised in defence against a well-drilled Spurs team. While they showed flashes of threat on the counter, they ultimately lacked a cutting edge. A vocal home crowd may provide the lift needed to spark a much-improved performance.
Sunderland enjoyed a dream start to life back in the Premier League, dispatching West Ham 3-0 at a jubilant Stadium of Light. Their forwards combined with pace and precision, while Granit Xhaka’s leadership set the tempo from midfield. Although the defensive injuries are a concern, their attacking potential will make them a threat to any team.
Burnley predicted XI: Dúbravka; Walker, Ekdal, Estève, Hartman; Sonne, Laurent, Cullen, Edwards, Bruun Larsen; Foster.
Sunderland predicted XI: Roefs; Hume, Ballard, Seelt, Mandava; Sadiki. Diarra, Xhaka, Talbi, Mayenda, Adingra.
The match will not be broadcast live on UK television due to the 3pm blackout rule. Highlights will be available on BBC Match of the Day from Saturday evening, and live radio commentary is provided by BBC Radio 5 Live.