NO WAY: now not under doubt as the Black Cats underappreciated GEM make final decision towards Stadium of Light departure immediately January transfer window opens.
After a 16th-place finish last season and a tough second half, few expected Sunderland to start this season so positively. Despite the uplifting mood at the Stadium of Light, not everyone is thriving, notably Adil Aouchiche. Since Le Bris took charge, Aouchiche has seen only 12 minutes of playtime in Sunderland’s first 12 Championship games, a stark contrast to last season, when he was regularly featured.
The 23-year-old forward has been left out of the squad for seven of Sunderland’s 12 games so far. With this in mind, a January exit seems increasingly likely. Sunderland signed Aouchiche in the summer of 2023 after stints with PSG, Saint-Étienne, and Lorient. While he managed two goals and two assists in 28 Championship games last season, it appears that Le Bris, who knows him well from their time at Lorient, doesn’t see him as part of his current plans.
Aouchiche started an EFL Cup match against Preston in August, playing 81 minutes, and made a brief 12-minute appearance against Sheffield Wednesday. However, he hasn’t featured since August 18. Although he’s been included in the last three matchday squads, his lack of minutes suggests he’s out of Le Bris’ rotation.
A January loan move would make sense for all involved. Aouchiche, under contract until June 2028, needs regular game time to continue developing. A loan would allow him to play more without Sunderland having to part with him permanently. Additionally, sending him to an English club would help him gain valuable experience in the Championship.
Interest from other Championship clubs could provide him with a much-needed fresh start and the chance to return to Sunderland stronger for pre-season. Aouchiche hasn’t had the impact he hoped for this season, but a January loan could be the perfect remedy to get his Sunderland career back on track.