Chris Rigg’s bright future includes potential Premier League stardom. Sunderland securing Rigg’s contract ensures future transfer value. Young fans eagerly anticipate Rigg’s growth and impact on Sunderland.
This article is part of Football League World’s ‘Terrace Talk’ series, which offers personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits on the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings, and more.
Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg is one of the most exciting wonderkids in the Championship, having already made his mark in the first-team squad at just 17.
When Chris Rigg, then 15, came off the bench during Sunderland’s third-round FA Cup tie against Shrewsbury Town in January 2023, few could have predicted his significant impact in the following years.
Within a month, Rigg gained recognition beyond Sunderland after having a goal disallowed in the FA Cup fourth-round fixture against Fulham at Craven Cottage. If the goal had stood, he would have become the youngest goalscorer in FA Cup history.
As Sunderland’s youngest-ever debutant, he continued to make history, becoming the youngest player to score in the EFL Cup with his goal against Crewe Alexandra at the start of last season.
The teenage sensation made 21 Championship appearances during the 2023/24 season, scoring twice and earning a spot in the starting lineup eight times towards the season’s end.
**Chris Rigg will go to the top**
Football League World’s Mackems fan pundit, Travis Martin, shared his thoughts on Rigg’s career potential, believing the teenager is destined for the Premier League, with or without Sunderland.
“This boy’s ceiling is extremely high, and I firmly believe he can go to the very top,” said Martin.
“I think he’ll be a Premier League player within the next couple of seasons, whether Sunderland are there or not. He has numerous abilities—his long-range and short-range passing is exquisite, his tackling is fantastic, and his dribbling, creativity, and decision-making are brilliant.
“He’s versatile, having played on the right side of midfield briefly last season, but he can also play across all four central positions, whether it’s as a ten, eight, six, or even a holding role with his long-range ability.
“There have been questions about his ability to keep hold of the ball, his strength, and his physicality, but that’s natural for a 17-year-old.
“In terms of his determination and aggression, there’s no doubt. Conversations with club players reveal that Chris Rigg is seen as the hard man willing to go into a tackle, which is impressive for someone his age.
“His mentality is exceptional and often understated given his technical skills. Extending his contract makes him Sunderland’s signing of the summer.
“He’s a strong candidate for (Young) Player of the Season if he gets enough minutes, even though he’s only 17. Archie Gray won (Young) Player of the Season last year playing right-back.
“Rigg has had games off, but his potential to change a game at his age, combined with his international recognition at youth levels and captaining England’s U17s and U20s, shows his exceptional pedigree.
“Interest from clubs like Manchester United, Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, and others is no coincidence. He’s excited Sunderland fans, and we hope he stays with us as long as possible. I believe he can reach the top soon.”
**Sunderland have done well to tie down Chris Rigg**
Earlier this summer, Rigg attracted interest from some of the world’s top clubs. However, Sunderland secured a three-year deal with him in July.
Ensuring the 17-year-old is under contract until at least 2027 means Sunderland can command a significant transfer fee if they let him go in the next season or two. Meanwhile, his talent could help push the club towards promotion.
Sunderland have retained one of the most exciting young players in the division, and their supporters are eager to watch his development during the 2024/25 campaign.
