Sunderland’s sporting director has left the club after five years of service
The decision was taken by the club’s board of directors, with Florent Ghisolfi leading the sporting project moving forward following his arrival in the summer. Speakman has been an integral part of the club’s rise back from League One having joined shortly before Kyril Louis-Dreyfus’s takeover of the club was announced in December 2020. He oversaw the implementation of a new recruitment model as the club invested heavily in young players, as well as the rise of a number of academy players into first-team players.
Following his departure he has posted the following message, thanking his family, staff and players of Sunderland alike. He also paid tribute to the club’s support.
“The opportunity to be sporting director and lead this historic club over the last five plus years has been the honour of a lifetime,” Speakman said.
“I owe a debt of gratitude to my wife and children for allowing me to live this experience and on so many occasions place the club before home.
“I was once told to 'work where it matters' and I've learned over these six seasons how much this club matters to the people of Sunderland. Re-establishing a team built on the region's identity, creating a deep connection with its people is an aspect I'll be most proud of. The same community welcomed our family and for that we'll be forever grateful to the many friends, neighbours, coaches and staff that made Sunderland our home - it's been a truly humbling experience to work alongside so many talented people. To all the players and staff past and present, thank you for believing in our shared vision. Ultimately all our success over these six seasons has been down to your unwavering commitment, technical excellence and attitude to deliver your best every day. For this you should all be immensely proud of where the club sits today.
“The greatest asset this club has are its fans and it's been a pleasure sharing some incredible memories with you all. Good luck for the remaining games this season. “
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Sunderland’s statement on Kristjaan Speakman’s departure
Sunderland AFC today confirms that Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman has left the Club with immediate effect.
Kristjaan was a key figure during one of the most significant periods in the Club’s recent history, playing an important role in bringing Sunderland back to the Premier League.
Appointed in December 2020, he led a comprehensive rebuild of the Club’s football operations, reshaping its recruitment and performance infrastructure and restoring competitive momentum.
His time on Wearside included three victories at Wembley Stadium, including Sunderland’s first win at the national stadium since 1973 and two Play-Off Final wins.
With Premier League status restored and a strengthened football leadership structure in place, the Board of Directors has made the decision to continue the Club’s journey without Kristjaan.
Director of Football Florent Ghisolfi will continue to lead Sunderland’s sporting programme after assuming control of all football operations in July 2025.
Kyril Louis-Dreyfus said: “Kristjaan has made an important contribution to Sunderland AFC during a period of significant transition and growth, helping to rebuild the Club and restore its place in the Premier League. Strong foundations have been established throughout our football operations over the past five years, and that phase of redevelopment is now complete. As we look to the future, our focus is on building from that position of strength with clarity of direction and sustained progress. We are grateful for Kristjaan’s commitment and professionalism and wish him every success for the future.”
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