Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs has earned widespread praise for his remarkable start to life in the Premier League, with even one of the Netherlands’ harshest critics admitting he’s been taken by surprise.
Writing in De Telegraaf, veteran journalist Valentijn Driessen lauded the 22-year-old shot-stopper for his composure, consistency, and immediate impact since joining Sunderland from NEC Nijmegen for €10.5 million over the summer.
“Didn’t expect him to settle so quickly”
Roefs arrived as one of the lesser-known names in Sunderland’s ambitious transfer window, but he has swiftly established himself as the club’s undisputed No.1 and a key figure in their impressive Premier League return.
“I thought he would become the first-choice goalkeeper — because they buy a goalkeeper for €10.5m and the club just got promoted,” Driessen admitted.
“So I thought, yes, he’ll definitely start. But I didn’t expect him to settle in so quickly and hold his own in the Premier League. He’s doing an excellent job, and almost every week we hear about him being the man of the match.
And that’s partly because Sunderland has made such a fantastic return into the Premier League. So yes, all the compliments for that.”
Roefs thriving under Le Bris
Under Régis Le Bris, Sunderland have been one of the surprise packages of the 2025/26 campaign, sitting 4th in the Premier League heading into the international break. Roefs’ performances have been central to that success, combining reflex saves with leadership beyond his years.
So far, he has kept four clean sheets in 11 games, with data showing he has prevented an estimated 2.6 goals more than expected — a figure level with Dean Henderson and the best among newly promoted goalkeepers.
He also ranks first in save percentage and second in total saves made across the league, underlining his immediate adaptation to English football’s intensity.
| Stat (2025/26) | Robin Roefs |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 11 |
| Clean Sheets | 4 |
| Goals Prevented (xG metric) | +2.6 |
| Save Percentage | 1st in Premier League |
| Total Saves | 2nd overall |
| Transfer Fee | €10.5 million |
source: Sofascore data – 14 November 2025
“Extreme value for money”
Sunderland fans have quickly embraced the young Dutchman, whose blend of confidence and humility mirrors the team’s fearless approach to their Premier League campaign. His performances have not only validated the club’s recruitment strategy but also highlighted the coaching staff’s ability to integrate new players seamlessly.
For Driessen — known in the Netherlands for his often uncompromising analysis — such praise is rare. His comments reflect just how impressive Roefs has been in such a short time.
Our View: Sunderland found a gem
In our view, Sunderland’s signing of Robin Roefs might already rank among the smartest pieces of business in recent Premier League windows. The 22-year-old’s performances have exuded maturity, calm, and confidence — qualities that have underpinned the club’s remarkable rise into the top four.
If his form continues, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Roefs linked with Europe’s elite clubs next summer. For now, Sunderland can enjoy the security of knowing they’ve found a goalkeeper capable of keeping them competitive at the very highest level.
Key Insights
- Robin Roefs has impressed since his €10.5m summer move from NEC Nijmegen.
- He has 4 clean sheets and a +2.6 goals prevented rating in 11 Premier League games.
- Valentijn Driessen says he’s been “surprised” by Roefs’ immediate adaptation.
- Sunderland sit 4th in the Premier League under Régis Le Bris.
- The 22-year-old is already being labelled “extreme value for money.”
What’s Next
Roefs will return from international duty with the Netherlands ready for Sunderland’s next Premier League test — an away clash with Fulham on 22 November. Another strong display could further cement his status as one of the league’s breakout stars of the season.
👉 Sunderland fans — has Robin Roefs been your signing of the season so far?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *