{"remix_data":[],"remix_entry_point":"challenges","source_tags":["local"],"origin":"unknown","total_draw_time":0,"total_draw_actions":0,"layers_used":0,"brushes_used":0,"photos_added":0,"total_editor_actions":{},"tools_used":{},"is_sticker":false,"edited_since_last_sticker_save":false,"containsFTESticker":false}
“Well first of all…”- Kristjaan Speakman gives interest insight on Régis Le Bris’s Sunderland appointment one year on
One Year On: Speakman Praises Régis Le Bris’s Impact at Sunderland
A year after his appointment, Régis Le Bris is being credited with bringing calm, consistent leadership to Sunderland—an approach that has helped guide the club back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Speaking at the Foundation of Light’s annual fixture breakfast last week, Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman reflected on Le Bris’s first year in charge and shed light on the decision to appoint the former FC Lorient boss.
Although Le Bris’s tenure at Lorient ended in relegation, Speakman said the club saw it as an opportunity to act decisively.
Sunderland had long been tracking coaches who had risen through academy or reserve-team pathways—something that made Le Bris a particularly attractive candidate.
“We’ve always looked closely at coaches who have progressed from B teams to senior roles,” said Speakman. “It demonstrates their ability to develop younger players, which is a key part of our philosophy.
Régis had an outstanding first season at Lorient, followed by a more challenging second one. After that first season, we wouldn’t have had a chance to bring him in.
So when the opportunity presented itself last summer, we moved quickly. We try to be opportunistic in our recruitment, whether it’s for players or staff.”
Calm Authority and a Strong Structure
Speakman went on to praise Le Bris’s work ethic and his composed leadership style—qualities that proved essential during a demanding campaign.
He also pointed to the stability and structure Sunderland has built over recent years as crucial in helping Le Bris transition smoothly into his first managerial role outside of France.
“Régis brings an incredible level of passion and dedication to his work,” Speakman noted. “You can’t operate with the level of detail he does without truly loving what you do.”
“In football, highs and lows are inevitable. That’s why it’s so valuable to have leaders who are consistent. Régis is the same person every week—win, lose or draw.
That creates a dependable environment where people know what to expect, and they can focus on their roles without second-guessing the mood of the room.”
Speakman contrasted Le Bris’s steady demeanor with more volatile leadership styles that can destabilize a club.
He added that Le Bris’s integration into the club reflects the strength of Sunderland’s long-term planning.
“He’s fit into the building really well. It’s a testament to the structure we’ve developed over the last four years.
We don’t operate in an autocratic way—we have a collaborative leadership model, and the head coach plays a central role within that. Régis sets the tone for us.”
