Reinildo Mandava Signs Two-Year Deal With Sunderland

Sunderland have signed experienced left-back Reinildo Mandava on a two-year contract. The Mozambique international joins on a free transfer after leaving Atlético Madrid.

According to a previous report, Reinildo Mandava joins Sunderland on a two-year contract.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Reinildo Mandava, 31, is Sunderland’s new recruit as the club joins the Premier League. The defender spent the last two seasons at Atlético Madrid, making 74 appearances in all competitions. The Mozambique international lost his place last season and was not offered a new contract. Sunderland acted quickly to recruit Mandava, adding much-needed experience and defensive solidity as they prepare for life in England’s top flight.

A previous report confirmed that Reinildo Mandava made 74 appearances for Atlético Madrid since joining from Lille in 2022.

WHY THIS SIGNING MATTERS

Mandava brings top-level experience, having played in both La Liga and the Champions League, and previously winning Ligue 1 with Lille. His arrival is part of Sunderland’s strategy to balance their recent investment in youth—such as the £30 million signing of 20-year-old Habib Diarra—with players who have proven pedigree in top European leagues. The club’s owners and new head coach Régis Le Bris want to build a side capable of surviving and thriving in the Premier League following a resolute promotion campaign.

A previous report confirmed that Sunderland signed Habib Diarra for a club-record fee.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR SUNDERLAND?

Sunderland will focus on finalising their squad as they gear up for the 2025/26 Premier League season, with the first fixture scheduled in just a few weeks. The club is also expected to announce Florent Ghisolfi as their new director of football, strengthening their structure behind the scenes. Sunderland’s first match back is against West Ham, a team that finished in mid-table last season. Sunderland are newly promoted and must prove themselves quickly, with their immediate goal to avoid relegation and secure their place among England’s elite. The next matches will be important for testing the new signings and building momentum quickly in the campaign.

According to a previous report, Sunderland will return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence.