Sunderland has a history of making terrible acquisition choices.
The failure to sign Yann M’Vila to a long-term contract, however, may be the one that sticks in the minds of fans and continues to shatter their hearts.
The midfielder was one of the best players I have ever seen wear a Sunderland jersey when he joined the Black Cats on loan from Rubin Kazan for the 2015–16 season.
We actually had the chance to recruit such a guy despite being a joke of a team at the time, and what made it even more bizarre was that he wanted to return. M’Vila even posted on social media about wanting to sign a long-term contract with Sunderland but claimed the team just wasn’t interested in him.
Ellis Short drew a lot of flak for that choice, and deservedly so. Fans were forced to move on, however, as M’Vila dejectedly left for Russia.
Seven years later, we have yet another opportunity to bring M’Vila back. RMC Sport reports that Sunderland is one of several organizations interested in signing the Frenchman after Olympiacos released him on a free transfer.
Fabrizio Romano continued by stating that M’Vila is looking for a new club but has not yet initiated contact with any prospective suitors.
Bring back Yann!
M’Vila won’t quite be the player he was back then, but he’s still about Corry Evans’ age and might still contribute to the Championship. The former France international has a great rapport with the supporters and would significantly improve the atmosphere at the club. He would also offer the experience, strength, and grit that Sunderland’s midfield occasionally lacks.
M’Vila is unquestionably highly prepared to step in as Evans’ successor in that team after making 31 appearances in the Greek Super League and an additional eight in the Europa League last season.
It seems absurd that the Black Cats wouldn’t at least try to sign him given that he is a free agent. M’Vila was rumored to make about £29,000 per week at Olympiacos, but he would undoubtedly take a salary reduction to move back to Wearside.
Kristjaan Speakman, finish the job!
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