Arthur Masuaku palaa Valioliigaan Sunderlandin vahvistukseksi kokemusta ja varmuutta puolustukseen
It’s been a summer of bold moves up in Wearside, and now Sunderland have added yet another piece to their Premier League survival plan. The Black Cats have gone out and brought back a familiar name for English football fans: Arthur Masuaku.
The 31-year-old Congolese left-back has signed a two-year deal, arriving from Turkish side Beşiktaş on a free transfer. For Sunderland, it’s the kind of low-risk, high-experience signing that can make all the difference when you’re stepping back into the top flight after years away.
A Premier League Veteran Returns
Older Sunderland supporters might remember a time when their club fought toe-to-toe with England’s elite. Younger fans may know Masuaku as the versatile, quietly reliable presence who spent seven seasons at West Ham United between 2016 and 2023. Over 128 league appearances, he built a reputation for two things: rock-solid defending down the left and an ability to push forward with intent.
At 31, Masuaku is no longer the new kid on the block, but that’s exactly the point. Sunderland aren’t just chasing promise this summer—they’re stocking up on know-how. And who better to guide a young, hungry squad through the Premier League’s relentless grind than someone who’s survived and adapted in it for nearly a decade?
“I’m excited to be here and really happy to be back in the Premier League,” Masuaku said in his unveiling. “Sunderland is a great club and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
The Summer of Rebuilding
This isn’t just a single signing—it’s part of a bigger picture. This summer marks Sunderland’s 10th new arrival as they prepare for the 2025–26 season, their first in the Premier League since climbing back up. Promotion has opened the gates to richer TV deals and bigger sponsorships, but money alone guarantees nothing in England’s top tier.
Sunderland’s transfer strategy so far? A smart blend of exciting young talent and seasoned campaigners who know exactly what they’re walking into. The shopping list has ranged from a loan move for a promising Chelsea forward to the high-profile return of Granit Xhaka. And now, Masuaku joins the mix.
How He Fits In
On the pitch, Masuaku is well-suited for the modern game’s elastic formations. He can operate as a traditional left-back in a back four, or push further upfield as a wing-back in a three-centre-back system.
His strengths are obvious:
- Dribbling past opponents: Willing to take on defenders and beat them.
- Calm under pressure: Keeps composure when pressed aggressively.
- Tactical flexibility: Comfortable in both 4-2-3-1 and 3-5-2 systems.
For head coach [insert Sunderland manager’s name], that means more tactical options—an important asset for a team that will need to adapt quickly from week to week.
The Challenge Ahead
It’s been two years since Masuaku last played in the Premier League. The pace and intensity of England’s top flight can hit hard if you haven’t faced it in a while. But if anyone can bridge that gap, it’s a battle-tested defender who’s faced down Liverpool at Anfield, Spurs at the London Stadium, and Manchester City in full flow.
Beyond his footballing skills, Sunderland will be banking on his professionalism and leadership. A newly promoted team always faces nerves, momentum swings, and moments where grit outweighs glamour. In those moments, a calm, experienced voice in the dressing room can matter more than a highlight-reel goal.
What’s Next for Sunderland?
Even with Masuaku in the fold, Sunderland’s transfer work isn’t done. Reports suggest they’re still chasing a first-choice goalkeeper and a lethal finisher up front. The message is clear: survival isn’t the end goal—they want to lay foundations for genuinely belonging among the Premier League elite.
Quick Facts
- Player: Arthur Masuaku, 31
- From: Beşiktaş (Turkey)
- To: Sunderland (England)
- Fee: Free
- Contract: 2 years
- Previous PL experience: 128 games with West Ham
- Summer status: 10th signing for Sunderland in 2025
Sunderland fans—what do you think? Is Masuaku the steadying hand your left flank needed, or would you have rolled the dice on someone younger with a point to prove?
