Sunderland vs Chelsea Match Preview: Key Absences and Impact

Match Context

The Premier League fixture at Stadium of Light in Sunderland brings Sunderland (10th, 51 points, goal difference -7) up against Chelsea (8th, 52 points, goal difference 7) on 24 May 2026. This is a Regular Season - 38 clash with both sides separated by a single point in the table.

Sunderland Availability

Sunderland face multiple absences. D. Ballard (Red Card) is sidelined. S. Moore (Wrist Injury) is sidelined. R. Mundle (Hamstring Injury) is sidelined. C. Talbi (Muscle Injury) is sidelined. O. Alderete (Injury) is doubtful. B. Traoré (Knee Injury) is doubtful. Creative influence E. Le Fée, who has contributed 5 goals and 6 assists, is available, as is G. Xhaka with 1 goal and 6 assists.

Chelsea Availability

Chelsea also have a lengthy list of concerns. J. Derry (Concussion) is sidelined. Estêvão (Hamstring Injury) is sidelined. J. Gittens (Muscle Injury) is sidelined. R. Lavia (Knock) is sidelined. M. Mudryk (Suspended) is sidelined. Leading scorer João Pedro, with 15 goals and 5 assists, is available, as is E. Fernández, who has added 10 goals and 4 assists.

Impact Summary

Sunderland’s absentees mainly hit depth and defensive stability, while Chelsea lose midfield and wide options plus one suspended attacker, but crucially retain their primary goal threats in João Pedro and E. Fernández.