Former Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has lavished praise on Régis Le Bris and his Sunderland side after their remarkable 2–1 win away to Chelsea — a result that propelled the newly promoted club into second place in the Premier League table.
Speaking on Match of the Day, Carrick described Sunderland’s start to the season as “unbelievable”, crediting Le Bris for implementing a complex, possession-based style so swiftly after promotion via the play-offs.
“I mean, I’m hugely impressed,” Carrick said. “They came into the league by the play-offs — which puts you back three or four weeks in preparation. Today they had four players from last season’s team, so it’s a big change from a coaching perspective to put that together so quickly. To accumulate the points they have is an unbelievable achievement.”
Carrick praises Sunderland’s transformation under Le Bris
Carrick, who faced Sunderland numerous times as Middlesbrough boss, admitted the team’s tactical maturity and composure in big games stood out most. “There are so many positives,” he said. “The way they adapt, the confidence they play with — that doesn’t look like a newly promoted side to me.”
Under Le Bris, the Black Cats have collected 17 points from a possible 27, sitting second in the table ahead of Sunday’s fixtures. Their victory at Stamford Bridge showcased the same blend of structure, intensity and self-belief that has defined their return to the top flight.
“To accumulate the points they’ve got, it’s an unbelievable achievement to be sat here with so many points.” — Michael Carrick, Match of the Day
Sunderland’s rise built on energy and adaptability
Régis Le Bris has transformed Sunderland into one of the Premier League’s most organised and entertaining sides. Combining technical precision with relentless pressing.
Their ability to adapt — whether dominating possession or countering quickly — has made them unpredictable opponents for established top-six teams.
| Stat (2025/26) | Sunderland |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 9 |
| Points | 17 |
| Wins | 5 |
| Goals Scored | 15 |
| Clean Sheets | 4 |
source: Premier League data – 25 October 2025
Those numbers tell the story of a team exceeding every expectation, driven by tactical clarity and an unshakeable work ethic.
Our View: Carrick’s praise says everything about Le Bris’s impact
In our view, Carrick’s words carry extra weight. As a meticulous coach himself, his recognition of Sunderland’s structure and preparation speaks volumes about Le Bris’s impact. The Frenchman’s attention to detail and commitment to fluid, intelligent football have quickly made Sunderland one of the Premier League’s standout stories.
From playoff winners to genuine top-four contenders within months, Sunderland’s rise feels like a blend of belief, coaching brilliance and fearless execution. Le Bris has installed a system that empowers individuals — but more importantly, unites the group behind a clear identity.
Key Insights
- Michael Carrick called Sunderland’s 2–1 win at Chelsea “unbelievable” on Match of the Day.
- Régis Le Bris’s side have earned 17 points from their first nine Premier League matches.
- Carrick praised Sunderland’s tactical evolution and composure under pressure.
- Sunderland have transformed from playoff winners to top-two contenders.
- The result highlights Le Bris’s growing reputation as one of the Premier League’s most promising coaches.
What’s Next for Sunderland
Sunderland host Everton next weekend in the Premier League. Confidence is soaring, and belief within the fanbase is matching it.
As Carrick noted, the real test will be sustaining performance levels — but if the first nine games are any indication, Sunderland look ready for anything.
👉 Can Régis Le Bris keep Sunderland in the Premier League’s top four beyond Christmas?
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