Despite exceeding expectations at numerous points this season, the mood at the Stadium of Light is taking a turn.
Sunderland have recorded three defeats in their past five Premier League games, also conceding more than three goals in back-to-back league games for the first time since September 1958.
In addition, only Burnley (31) and Tottenham (30) have conceded more league goals than Sunderland (27) in 2026, despite only Arsenal (12) and Manchester City (17) having conceded less league goals than the Black Cats (18) at the turn of the year.
These stats illustrate a stark contrast to the newly-promoted side who were taking the top flight by storm at the start of the campaign.
Sunderland boss Regis le Bris admitted it has been "a long and tough season" for his side in the aftermath of their 5-0 thumping by Nottingham Forest on Friday night, adding that things feel “a bit on the edge” after recent results.
The fans’ verdict following the defeat was also pretty damning, with one supporter suggesting there is “no quality in the team” and another stating “we have rode our luck for too long”.
Former Black Cats captain Gary Bennett also waded in on the conversation, saying the players "need to look in the mirror" on BBC Radio Newcastle.
But the question is: does the blame lie with the players, the manager or the club's hierarchy?
Well, last week, Talksport reported Sunderland owners Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Juan Sartori have not ruled out sacking Le Bris at the end of this season, if he fails to secure European football.
"I don't want to lose this manager," Black Cats fan Peter told BBC Radio 5 Live’s 606 over the weekend. “He has been absolutely amazing for us, but the owner is very ambitious. He has already changed his top management, so I’m really worried for Le Bris.”
However, former Premier League striker Chris Sutton believes it would be a "madness" of a decision to sack the Frenchman as "the fact they have stayed up so comfortably is an amazing feat in itself."
Why do you think Sunderland's form has taken a downturn in recent weeks? How are you feeling about the current situation? What do you believe needs to change moving forward?
Let us know your thoughts here
