Chris Rigg says it was an easy decision to commit his future to Sunderland after a summer of speculation linking him with Premier League giants Arsenal and Liverpool.
The 18-year-old midfielder, who has become one of the brightest young talents in English football, signed a long-term contract with the Black Cats in August 2025 — a deal that ties him to the club until 2030.
Rigg’s decision came after Sunderland’s promotion to the Premier League and amid interest from several top clubs at home and abroad, including Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and Inter Milan. But the academy graduate insists he always knew where he wanted to play his football.
Rigg on why he stayed loyal to Sunderland
“There was no choice there; I was always going to do that. Because I know what this club means, their ambitions, and you can see it on the pitch. So yeah, just buzzing.” — Chris Rigg, via Sunderland Echo
Rigg told The Echo that committing to his boyhood team was a proud moment, especially after breaking into the first team under new manager Régis Le Bris. “It’s every boy’s dream to be a Premier League player — but to do it for the club you grew up supporting, that’s special,” he said after Sunderland’s 2-0 win over Wolves at the Stadium of Light.
The midfielder, who began the season as an impact substitute, has seized his chance in the starting XI following Habib Diarra’s injury. His energy, composure, and pressing have helped Sunderland make a smooth adjustment to life back in the Premier League.
A breakthrough season for Sunderland’s homegrown star
Rigg’s rise has been rapid. Last season, he was a standout performer during Sunderland’s promotion campaign, earning the EFL Championship Apprentice of the Year award. His maturity on and off the ball continues to impress Le Bris, who has made youth development a cornerstone of the club’s long-term plan alongside sporting director Kristjaan Speakman.
| Stat (2025/26) | Chris Rigg |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 6 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Pass Accuracy | 71% |
source: Sofascore match data – 23 October 2025
Sunderland’s hierarchy also praised the teenager’s commitment, with Speakman saying Rigg’s renewal was “another fantastic moment” for the club’s academy and proof that their youth-first model can thrive even in the top flight.
Our View
In our view, Rigg’s loyalty sends a powerful message about Sunderland’s resurgence. For years, the club struggled to hold onto their top prospects — but this new era under Le Bris and Speakman feels different. The fact that a player courted by Arsenal and Liverpool chose to stay shows that Sunderland’s project is being taken seriously.
Rigg’s technical quality and maturity beyond his years make him central to the Black Cats’ ambitions. If his development continues on this trajectory, he could become one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders within the next few seasons.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William writes:
I think Chris Rigg’s decision to stay is a defining moment for Sunderland. He’s not just another talented academy graduate — he’s a statement of intent. Clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool rarely miss out on players they truly want, which makes this commitment even more impressive.
We believe Rigg has the mentality and work ethic to become Sunderland’s leader in midfield for the next decade. His grounded approach and passion for the club echo what made Jordan Henderson’s rise so memorable.
Key Insights
- Chris Rigg turned down interest from Arsenal and Liverpool to stay at Sunderland.
- The 18-year-old signed a new deal until 2030 after the club’s promotion.
- He’s now a Premier League starter under Régis Le Bris.
- Rigg says his loyalty was “no choice” because of his love for the club.
- Sunderland’s academy hailed for retaining one of England’s top young talents.
What’s Next
Sunderland travel to face Chelsea on 25 October 2025 as they continue to establish themselves in the Premier League. Rigg is expected to retain his place in midfield, with Le Bris trusting the teenager to handle top-flight intensity.
For Sunderland fans, Rigg’s story is the embodiment of hope — a local lad leading a Premier League revival with loyalty that money couldn’t buy.
👉 Was Chris Rigg right to reject Arsenal and Liverpool to stay loyal to Sunderland?
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