“Revealed: 3 Future Stars in Sunderland’s Academy Who Could Save the Club MILLIONS This Summer
Three current players from Sunderland’s academy could play a significant role next season.
Sunderland have enjoyed a largely successful 2024/25 Championship campaign, with Regis Le Bris’ side sitting comfortably in 4th place in the league.
Looking at the key contributors to the Black Cats’ strong season, which has them on track to fight for promotion through the Championship playoffs, many of the standout performers have come through the academy.
Players like Chris Rigg and Dan Neil have been pivotal in midfield, while Anthony Patterson continues to establish himself as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper—all three having emerged from the academy.
Even Tommy Watson has proven his Championship credentials before a lengthy injury kept him sidelined for months.
Given Sunderland’s success with recent academy graduates, here are three more prospects who could step up next season…
Trey Ogunsuyi
Trey Ogunsuyi is one of Sunderland’s most promising academy talents, with the Belgian forward impressing for the U21 side.
The 18-year-old has seen limited first-team action, making a brief appearance during extra time in the FA Cup defeat to Stoke City.
However, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him get more chances next season. He could serve as a cost-effective backup striker behind Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda in the squad.
Harrison Jones
Another player thriving in the U21 setup is midfield playmaker Harrison Jones.
Like Ogunsuyi, Jones has had minimal first-team involvement this season, though he was given a start against Stoke in the FA Cup and made several substitute appearances in the EFL Cup and Championship, including a brief cameo against Sheffield Wednesday.
Jones has continued to impress with the U21s and could soon earn a permanent spot in the first team after being involved with the senior squad multiple times.
With someone like Dan Neil to mentor him, Jones could be poised for more first-team opportunities.
Finn Geragusyan
One of the breakout stars in Sunderland’s academy this season is 17-year-old centre-forward Finn Geragusyan.
After starting the season in the U18 setup, Geragusyan scored six goals and provided four assists before moving up to the U21s, where he has continued to impress.
Recently, he scored twice in a 3-1 win over Leeds United U21s, showcasing his growth over the season.
If Sunderland need more depth in attack next year, Geragusyan could be a valuable addition to the first team.
