Luciano Vulcano to Join Sunderland as Assistant Coach

Luciano Vulcano, who recently left Al Nassr as an assistant coach, is set to join Sunderland. He will be their new first team assistant coach. Vulcano, an Italian who previously worked with AC Milan, was Sunderland’s head coach Regis Le Bris’s first choice for the role. Le Bris had been interested in hiring Vulcano for more than a year.

Sunderland have agreed to sign Noah Sadiki from Union Saint-Gilloise.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Luciano Vulcano is ready for a fresh start in English football after leaving Al Nassr last week. He received offers to become a head coach elsewhere, but he decided to accept the assistant role at Sunderland. Sunderland’s new head coach Le Bris specifically sought Vulcano to bolster his staff composition, recognizing his tactical acumen and comprehensive understanding of the game from playing and coaching across various top clubs in Europe and the Middle East.

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT FOR SUNDERLAND

Sunderland finished in the playoff spots in the Championship last season, but managed oto move up to the Premier League, along with Leeds United and Burnley. With an exciting young squad and a new French head coach, the club aims to build a team capable of challenging for the top six under their new ownership. Vulcano, known for his role in nurturing talented players at AC Milan during his two-year stint there, was linked with high-profile managerial roles during his time at Al Nassr. His experience in that high-pressure environment will be invaluable as Sunderland strive to elevate their standards and aim for Premier League football.

Sunderland will return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence.

LOOKING AHEAD: WHAT COMES NEXT?

Sunderland’s pre-season commitments begin in mid-July, but Vulcano, along with Le Bris’ squad, will have an early opportunity to showcase his talent against a relegated Nottingham Forest side. Sunderland will look to close the gap on the teams above them, and Le Bris’ belief is undoubtedly that Vulcano can play a significant role in that pursuit. Sunderland currently have one spot available in their squad. Fans will be eager to see who Vulcano chooses to fill this crucial position.

Sunderland are preparing for the 2025-26 Premier League season.