Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris is treating the club's pre-season tour of the United States as essential preparation for the 2026-27 Premier League campaign. The Black Cats are in Tennessee for an 11-day trip that began on Wednesday evening.
Sunderland's first fixture is against Liverpool at GEODIS Park in Nashville on Saturday 25 July, with kick-off at 5pm CDT (11pm BST). The tour also includes matches against Leeds United in New Jersey and Wrexham in Philadelphia.
Building on Established Culture
Le Bris highlighted how this pre-season differs from last year. With fewer new signings arriving, the squad already has an established culture and understanding of his system.
"We will have fewer new signings so the group is already set with a good culture," Le Bris said. "It is all about continuity and the fitness level has to grow progressively but the players know the system and it is much easier for us to go forward."
The manager noted that playing in America offers a unique experience, with the nation's appetite for sport and underdog mentality aligning well with Sunderland's approach to the season ahead.