Sunderland marked their return to the English Premier League on November 8, 2026, hosting Chelsea at the Stadium of Light. The match saw midfielder Enzo Le Fee score a penalty for the home side, celebrating in front of the Sunderland faithful.
The occasion was captured in an editorial by Martin Wanless for SB Nation, titled "Welcome Back, Sunderland. We've Missed You," published on November 9, 2026. The piece reflects on the club's long-awaited return to the top flight after a period away.
