Florent Ghisolfi sends message social media on Sunderland identity after derby win over Newcastle United
Sunderland sporting director Florent Ghisolfi has delivered a clear message on the club’s identity and direction following the Black Cats’ dramatic Tyne-Wear derby victory over Newcastle United.
Ghisolfi was on the pitch at full-time at St James’ Park, embracing captain Granit Xhaka in scenes that reflected the unity across the club after a significant result on Tyneside. Sunderland came from behind to secure a 2-1 win despite a lengthy injury list, sealing their first league double over Newcastle United since the 2014-15 season. The result also extended their unbeaten run against their rivals to 11 league games.
Newcastle, meanwhile, remain without a league derby victory since 2011 and have not beaten Sunderland at St James’ Park in the league since 2010. It was also another setback for Eddie Howe’s side, who have now dropped 22 points from winning positions in the Premier League this season - more than any other team.
Sunderland’s comeback was underpinned by a strong second-half performance, with Chemsdine Talbi becoming the youngest Sunderland player to score against Newcastle in the Premier League at 20 years and 317 days. Brian Brobbey then struck a late winner, the latest ever decisive goal in a Premier League meeting between the sides.
In the aftermath, Ghisolfi took to social media to reflect on the result and the wider progress being made at the club, stressing both pride and perspective. He said: “Proud to be part of this club and this community. We still have so much to build and improve, but let’s keep this unity, our identity. This heart. Nothing replaces that. Two wins this season, and a little more history. Be Sunderland, always till the end.”
The message underlined the importance Sunderland place on collective identity, with the club continuing to build momentum in their first season back in the Premier League following promotion. Despite injuries and disruption to the squad, Régis Le Bris’ side have shown resilience throughout the campaign, with the derby win providing further evidence of their ability to compete in high-pressure situations.
The scenes at full-time, with players celebrating in front of the 2,000 travelling supporters, reflected that connection between squad and fanbase - something Ghisolfi referenced in his message. Sunderland now sit on 43 points and are effectively safe in the Premier League, with attention turning to how far they can push in the closing weeks of the season.
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