“Sunderland’s new version of Amad?”Le Bris Has Unearthed Sunderland’s Amad 2.0 – Fans Will Love This ‘Electric’ Talent!”
Sunderland Return to Old Trafford with High Hopes and a Rising Star in Tow
Sunderland haven’t faced Manchester United at Old Trafford in Premier League action since Boxing Day 2016, but that drought will end this Saturday as Regis Le Bris’ ambitious side travel to Manchester with momentum on their side and a point to prove.
While history suggests an uphill battle—Sunderland’s last win at the Theatre of Dreams came in 2014 via a Sebastian Larsson strike—the Black Cats won’t be daunted.
In fact, that 2014 victory remains their only win in Manchester (including against City) from their last 29 visits to the city. But runs like this are made to be broken, and with three league wins already under their belt since earning promotion, Le Bris’ squad is brimming with belief.
A Familiar Face Could Return
Adding further intrigue is the potential return of Amad Diallo to Manchester United’s squad. The Ivorian winger, once a fan-favourite loanee at Sunderland, played a starring role during his time at the Stadium of Light.
Scoring 14 goals and dazzling with his flair and creativity, he was affectionately dubbed a “wizard” by journalist James Copley.
Now, reports suggest Amad may be fit enough to feature against his former club this weekend, having recently returned to training under manager Ruben Amorim.
If selected, he could be a key weapon for a United side still searching for consistency, with his knack for turning games in an instant already on display this season.
Sunderland’s ‘Next Amad’?
But Sunderland may not need to worry about Amad’s potential impact—because they might have unearthed a similar talent of their own.
Enter Chemsdine Talbi. The 20-year-old Moroccan attacker arrived from Club Brugge this summer with an impressive résumé: seven goals and five assists last season, including three contributions in the Champions League.
His pace, directness, and flair have already drawn comparisons to Amad’s electric stint in the Championship.
While Talbi has just one assist to show for his efforts so far, the signs are promising. Scout Antonio Mango described him as “electric” for his performances in Belgium, and Le Bris himself has acknowledged that the young winger needs “time” and “support” to fully flourish in English football.
Still, there’s no better place to announce your arrival than Old Trafford. A goal or standout performance against Manchester United could be the perfect springboard for Talbi to start building his legacy in red and white—just as Amad once did.
Sunderland’s track record of developing young talent suggests they may be nurturing another star in the making.
And while comparisons to Amad will persist, Talbi now has the platform to carve out a name of his own—starting Saturday in Manchester.