Eliezer Mayenda addresses Sunderland transfer question amid ‘top European clubs’ claim
Sunderland Striker Eliezer Mayenda Attracting Interest Amid Breakout Season
Sunderland may face summer transfer interest in rising star Eliezer Mayenda, who has drawn attention from top European clubs following a standout season.
Mayenda has been one of Sunderland’s breakthrough performers, capping his impressive campaign with a crucial goal at Wembley that sealed the club’s return to the Premier League. The 19-year-old striker’s composed finish with his weaker foot highlighted his rapid development and composure on the big stage.
French outlet Foot Mercato recently named Mayenda as a player to watch this summer, linking him with several elite clubs across Europe. However, the young forward has downplayed speculation, insisting he’s content on Wearside.
Speaking to SoFoot, Mayenda said: “You’re not the first to ask me this question—even my friends talk about it. I just got promoted to the Premier League on Saturday, and I want to enjoy it. I’m really happy at Sunderland.”
With three years remaining on his current deal, Mayenda appears focused on the present, reflecting on Sunderland’s dramatic comeback win over Sheffield United and the emotions of securing promotion.
“It was a roller coaster,” he said. “There was so much pressure, especially early on. Sheffield scored quickly, and then we lost our central defender Luke O’Nien to a shoulder injury just minutes into the game. He’s a leader and had played in many finals at Wembley. It took us time to settle. When Sheffield had a second goal disallowed, that gave us hope—without that, it might’ve been over.”
Mayenda praised head coach Régis Le Bris for his calming influence at halftime, which helped turn the tide. “Le Bris never shouts—he gives confidence. We came back with better intent. My goal came at a key moment, and after that, when Tommy scored in stoppage time, it was madness. The best emotion of my career!”
He also emphasized the importance of the promotion for Sunderland’s supporters: “Our fans have suffered the most in recent years. From League One to now, it’s been tough. Even last year was difficult, finishing 16th. This promotion is a huge relief. During the play-offs, there was a sense we had to do it for them. Thanks to this victory, they’ll finally have a great summer. Eight years is a long time. The city really needed this.”
Mayenda’s eventful season isn’t over yet. After the Wembley triumph, he linked up with Spain’s U20 squad in preparation for the World Cup later this year and may also earn a spot in the Spain U21 squad for the upcoming European Championships.
