Big Wages, Big Expectations: Sunderland’s Highest-Paid Players

August 18, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

After years of absence, Sunderland has finally returned to the Premier League. The Black Cats are back among England’s elite, and with their promotion comes higher expectations, stronger competition, and of course, bigger salaries. Here is a look at the 13 highest-paid players in the squad, starting from No. 13 and building up to the top earner.

13. Pierre Ekwah – £6,500 per week / £338,000 per year

Midfielder Pierre Ekwah is one of Sunderland’s rising young players. Despite being at the lower end of the top earners list, his technical ability and presence in midfield make him a valuable squad member.

12. Eliezer Mayenda – £6,500 per week / £338,000 per year

Young forward Eliezer Mayenda earns the same as Ekwah and is considered a long-term investment for Sunderland. His pace and energy up front give him great potential for growth in the Championship.

11. Adil Aouchiche – £7,000 per week / £364,000 per year

The French midfielder Adil Aouchiche brings flair and creativity to the team. At £7,000 per week, he provides an affordable attacking option with room to develop further.

10. Simon Moore – £7,000 per week / £364,000 per year

Veteran goalkeeper Simon Moore offers experience between the posts. His wages reflect his role as a reliable backup option and mentor for Sunderland’s younger goalkeepers.

9. Luke O’Nien – £7,500 per week / £390,000 per year

Fan favorite Luke O’Nien is a versatile player who can cover multiple positions. His hard work and leadership qualities make him a key figure on and off the pitch.

8. Timothée Pembélé – £7,500 per week / £390,000 per year

Timothée Pembele — By Supporterhéninois - Own work, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=102266384

French defender Timothée Pembélé provides depth in the back line. Still young, he has the chance to prove himself as an important defensive asset for Sunderland.

7. Ian Poveda – £9,000 per week / £468,000 per year

Winger Ian Poveda adds pace and trickery out wide. His weekly wage of £9,000 reflects Sunderland’s belief in his ability to unlock defenses.

6. Dennis Cirkin – £10,000 per week / £520,000 per year

Left-back Dennis Cirkin continues to grow in importance at Sunderland. His defensive consistency and attacking support down the flank make him one of the club’s key assets.

5. Anthony Patterson – £10,000 per week / £520,000 per year

Goalkeeper Anthony Patterson is one of the brightest prospects in the squad. His £10,000-per-week salary highlights Sunderland’s commitment to keeping a homegrown talent at the club.

4. Patrick Roberts – £12,500 per week / £650,000 per year

Creative winger Patrick Roberts provides flair and attacking spark. His ability to change a game with dribbling and vision justifies his place among the top earners.

3. Wilson Isidor – £15,000 per week / £780,000 per year

French forward Wilson Isidor is among Sunderland’s higher-paid players, earning £15,000 weekly. Brought in to strengthen the attack, he carries expectations to deliver goals.

2. Alan Browne – £15,000 per week / £780,000 per year

Midfielder Alan Browne matches Isidor’s salary and adds leadership to the team. His experience in the Championship makes him a crucial figure in Sunderland’s midfield.

1. Daniel Ballard – £25,000 per week / £1,300,000 per year

At the top of the list is defender Daniel Ballard, Sunderland’s highest earner. His £25,000 weekly wage reflects his status as a defensive cornerstone and one of the most important players in the squad.