Sunderland announce Europa League squad, leave Chemsdine Talbi out
The Black Cats have raised a few eyebrows with some omissions.
Sunderland have announced a 22-player squad for the UEFA Europa League 2026-27 league phase. Regis Le Bris has stuck with most of his core players who are leading the side in the Premier League, but some players have been omitted, including young winger Chemsdine Talbi.
The Black Cats had a fairly large squad after bringing in six first-team players over the summer. As a result, they had to make some tough choices while naming their Europa League squad and adhering to UEFA’s strict rules.
UEFA requires at least two goalkeepers on List A, with those spots going to Robin Roefs and Simon Moore. Nine defenders have been named in the squad, including three new signings: Kevin Danso, Dayann Méthalie, and Thomas Meunier.
Jules Ahoka, who arrived from Royal Antwerp, is one of six midfielders named in the squad, which also includes captain Granit Xhaka. Five forwards are present in the squad, including Malick Fofana, who was dramatically signed from Lyon on deadline day.
Also Read: Malick Fofana transfer saga: How Sunderland won battle for Lyon’s Belgian midfielder?
Chemsdine Talbi, Melker Ellborg out of squad
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Chemsdine Talbi is the biggest omission from Regis Le Bris’ squad. The Moroccan winger has impressed whenever he has been given a chance by the Sunderland head coach, scoring four goals and registering two assists in 28 league appearances last season.
However, this season, he has played just 30 minutes in the Premier League so far, suggesting that he may have fallen down the pecking order. Now, the former Club Brugge youngster has been omitted from the Black Cats’ continental squad.
Another player who has missed out is backup goalkeeper Melker Ellborg, who arrived in February from Malmo FF. The Swede made four appearances for the Wearside club last season, but he has not been included in the Europa League squad.
Ivorian winger Jocelin Ta Bi and Irish midfielder Alan Browne are two others who have missed out, although neither is currently in the first-team picture at the Stadium of Light. Juan Riquelme Angulo, who was signed from Independiente del Valle on deadline day, is also not in the squad.
Talbi and Ellborg, however, could be added later to the Europa League squad. Clubs who qualify for the knockout phase can register a maximum of three new eligible players, which could provide an opportunity for the omitted players to make an impact.
When is Sunderland’s first UEFA Europa League 2026‑27 match?
The Black Cats begin their Europa League campaign with a home fixture against AZ Alkmaar on September 16, 2026.
Which big names are not included in Sunderland’s Europa League squad?
The notable omissions are Chemsdine Talbi and Melker Ellborg.
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