“Revealed: The £6m PSG Star Who Turned Sunderland into a Barclays Sensation and why his Shocking exit still haunts Sunderland Fans!
During the Barclays Premier League era, several iconic players wore the red and white of Sunderland. Sponsored by Barclays from 2001 to 2016, this period featured a number of talents known for their skills, personalities, and memorable moments.
One standout player from this time was Stéphane Sessegnon, arguably one of the most technically gifted players the club has ever seen. Sunderland signed him for £6 million from PSG, a significant investment that carried some risk, especially during the high-pressure January transfer window. However, it was a gamble worth taking as the Black Cats aimed for European qualification.
Sessegnon joined at the end of January, becoming manager Steve Bruce’s second major signing after Sulley Muntari’s loan from Inter Milan. Bruce praised Sessegnon’s versatility, speed, and potential impact on the team, predicting he would quickly become a fan favorite.
Despite a difficult start that saw Sunderland go nine games without a win, Sessegnon eventually showcased his talent, scoring three goals and assisting two in the final stretch of the season. During the 2011/12 campaign, he solidified his status as a fan favorite, delivering dazzling performances that demonstrated his ability to change the course of a match.
His second season proved to be his most productive, contributing seven goals and nine assists as Sunderland finished a respectable 13th in the league. Alongside Seb Larsson, Sessegnon’s magic was crucial for the team’s success.
However, selling Sessegnon to West Bromwich Albion in the summer of 2013 was viewed as a mistake. Despite continuing to perform well, Di Canio deemed him surplus to requirements, especially after signing Fabio Borini. While the financial aspect of the transfer was favorable, fans lamented the loss of Sessegnon, who never replicated his Sunderland success during his time at West Brom.
In retrospect, Sessegnon’s departure marked a downturn for Sunderland, as his match-winning displays had endeared him to supporters. His signing was a smart move, showcasing his speed, determination, and ability to deliver crucial performances. Many fans still wonder how much more he could have achieved had he remained with the club.
