Here we go – new striker contract confirmed

Sunderland and Eliezer Mayenda have reached an agreement for an extension of the forward’s stay at the Stadium of Light until 2030.

The striker was delighted to commit his future to Sunderland, who he helped gain promotion to the Premier League last season. Sunderland make their return to the elite English football competition after a substantial absence of eight years having already added Granit Xhaka and Robin Roefs this summer with Chelsea’s Marc Guiu strongly linked with a move too.

The striker found his groove in the Championship, scoring 10 goals and assisting 5 more. The prospect of playing in the Premier League would have been a driving factor pushing Mayenda towards the contract extension.

Eliezer Mayenda signed until 2030

Following the announcement of this contract, the Spanish striker displayed his excitement and the love he harbours for the Sunderland faithful. Mayenda excitedly stated on the official Sunderland website –

“I’m very happy to sign a new contract. I think everybody knows that for me, this is my team, my Club, my city – so it’s a special moment. Sunderland fans are very, very special. I think they’re among the best in England. Playing at the Stadium of Light is always incredible. So, if I have one message, it’s to keep going like that – I feel amazing every time I step on the pitch.”

The Spaniard was subject to interest from several clubs this summer. Mayenda did not let the noise affect him and stayed committed to the Sunderland project. The new contract will be greeted with another round of celebrations by the Stadium of Light supporters.

The player has not enjoyed the smoothest of journeys and had to grind it out during his first season at the club (including a loan spell away from the club). His partnership grew leaps and bounds with gaffer, Regis Le Bris, and it reflected in his consistent game time in the 2nd division.

Mayenda could turn out to be among the best transfer decisions considering Sunderland’s long-term Premier League ambitions. The promising youngster even earned his first Spain U-21 call-up this year.

The news of the new contract for Eliezer Mayenda is the reason for happiness all around in the Sunderland camp, as it was when Mayenda scored the crunch equaliser against Sheffield United in the play-off final.

What did the club have to say?

Sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman also expressed his joy. Speakman is quoted as saying –

“We are delighted with Eliezer’s progress throughout the last two years.

Whether you’re a supporter, a member of staff, or one of his teammates, it’s been immensely rewarding to follow and support his development to this point.

Although this is a moment to reflect and celebrate his progress, it is also an opportunity to reset our objectives and expectations.

Eli is an important player for us, and his commitment will be significant as we embark upon the Premier League season.

He’s a great character who understands our club, and I know our supporters will be delighted by this news.”

Sunderland continue to add to their signings this summer and it seems Regis Le Bris may no longer be one of the favourites to be sacked based on the club’s business this summer.