“Will definitely opt for January Exist” Frustrated Midfielder with 28 appearance last season and 0 appearance this season so far threaten Le Bris of Stadium of Light Exist.
The previous season ended in disappointment for Sunderland. After the controversial decision to replace Tony Mowbray with Michael Beale as manager in December 2023, the club spent the final months under caretaker Mike Dodds. As a result, Sunderland managed only 16 points from their last 20 league games, finishing 16th and just six points clear of relegation.
Following an extensive search for Beale’s replacement, Regis Le Bris was appointed on a three-year contract, running until the summer of 2027. His arrival from Lorient, despite his lack of experience in England and Lorient’s recent relegation from Ligue 1, was seen as a gamble. However, things have gone as well as Sunderland could have hoped at the start of the new season.
### Regis Le Bris Off to a Strong Start with Sunderland AFC
Aside from an early exit in the Carabao Cup with a defeat to Preston North End, Le Bris has led Sunderland to a perfect start in the Championship. With four wins from four games, including a 4-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday and a 1-0 win against promotion favorites Burnley, Sunderland currently sit atop the standings. The mood at the Stadium of Light is far more positive than it was just a few months ago.
However, one player may feel personally frustrated with his situation at the club—Adil Aouchiche.
### Adil Aouchiche May Need a January Loan to Fulfill His Potential
Aouchiche joined Sunderland in the summer of 2023 from Lorient but has struggled to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup. Last season, he made 28 Championship appearances, but only 10 were starts, and he was substituted in eight of those matches. As a result, he only scored two league goals, struggling to find consistency.
Now, even under his former Lorient manager Le Bris, Aouchiche’s fortunes have not improved. He has made only one league appearance as a late substitute and started only in the Carabao Cup defeat to Preston. Given his lack of game time, a loan move in January might be beneficial for the 22-year-old, especially as many players his age are featuring more regularly. A loan spell would allow him to gain valuable minutes, aiding his development and potentially benefiting Sunderland when he returns.
With Aouchiche under contract until 2028, Sunderland would have no concerns about losing him on the cheap, even if he impresses while out on loan. Other players, such as Pierre Ekwah and Luis Semedo, have already been loaned out, showing the club’s willingness to sanction such moves. Given the potential benefits for both the player and the club, Aouchiche may want to consider discussing a loan with Le Bris ahead of the January transfer window.