Sunderland have confirmed the release of 15 players as they begin a squad rebuild ahead of their Europa League campaign. The club announced its retained list following a remarkable season that saw them qualify for European competition.
First-Team Departures
Four first-team players will leave the Stadium of Light: Dan Neil, Dennis Cirkin, Bertrand Traore, and Niall Huggins. All other senior squad members have been retained. The club also confirmed ongoing discussions with Lutsharel Geertruida.
Dan Neil's exit had been anticipated after he joined Ipswich Town on loan in January with six months left on his contract. Neil played a key role in Sunderland's rise from League One, captaining the side back to the Premier League and making over 200 appearances.
Dennis Cirkin departs after five years, having also helped the club climb from the third tier to the top flight, featuring more than 120 times.
Bertrand Traore leaves after just one season. The winger joined from Ajax on deadline day last year on an initial one-year deal with an option to extend. Despite becoming a regular under Regis Le Bris, a significant knee injury suffered while on international duty with Burkina Faso, followed by a recurrence in March, ended his campaign early.
Niall Huggins, whose time at Sunderland was plagued by injuries, moves on after joining in the summer of 2021.
Under-21 and Youth Departures
Eleven Under-21 players will also leave: Oliver Bainbridge, Marshall Burke, Dan Cameron, Thomas Lavery, Elias Lenz, Ethan Moore, Adam Richardson, Rhys Walsh, and Jake Waters. Second-year scholars Ivan Struk and George Bell are also departing the Academy of Light.
The club thanked all departing players and wished them well for the future.
Youth Contracts Offered
Meanwhile, eight youth players have been offered professional contracts: Finn Geragusian, Liam Hunt, Charlie Dinsdale, Bayley Hester, Marcus Neill, Finlay Holcroft, Joseph Neild, and Felix Scott.
