Everton vs Sunderland - Premier League

A fascinating Premier League chapter awaits on May 17, 2026 when Everton take on Sunderland at Hill Dickinson Stadium — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. The defender has entered the third year of his scholarship agreement, and United have hoped to tie Kukonki down to a professional contract, which was initially agreed last year.

Both camps will view the Premier League meeting at Hill Dickinson Stadium as an opportunity to put a marker down, regardless of where they currently stand. Everton have been picking up results at a respectable clip, WWDWD over their last five with a season win rate of 40%. Sunderland are in the midst of a slump, LLWLW over their last five and a paltry win rate of 20% summing up their struggles. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — Everton average 1.2 per game to Sunderland's 1.2, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. Those who followed Morocco's recent World Cup campaign will recognise the name Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Everton and Sunderland have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. His passing display at the World Cup was yet more evidence of his suitability for City and the possession-heavy style Maresca favours.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Man United transfer dialogue 'still open' as two striker deals on the cards.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. The signals point towards a stalemate, with the two sides closely matched across form and standings. A 1-1 draw is easy to envisage. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.