Mozambican defender Mandava savours special Sunderland start

Mozambican defender Reinildo Mandava has reflected on his first start for Sunderland AFC in Saturday’s 1-0 loss to Real Betis at the Stadium of Light.

The former Atletico Madrid left-back had a solid 60 minutes against the Spanish opposition he is familiar with from his days in La Liga.

Sunderland hosted the La Liga team to prepare for the Black Cats’ Premier League comeback.

Reflecting on his performance, Mandava described wearing Sunderland’s shirt as special.

“It was a special moment for me,” he told the club’s media.

“To play my first game here, in this stadium, means a lot. It’s something I’ve looked forward to since arriving. It felt good to be out there wearing the shirt and starting to build that connection on the pitch.”

“I feel good,” he added.

“It was my first 60 minutes in a while, so it’s an important step for me. I’m working every day to be ready for the start of the season, and games like today help me prepare. Physically, I’m getting there, and I’m starting to understand the team’s style more and more.

“We will keep working. There are two games left for us to prepare, but there is real excitement ahead of the West Ham fixture. We will be ready.”

The Mambas star signed for the Black Cats last month on a free transfer. He had become a free agent after parting ways with Atletico Madrid. Diego Simeone’s club had decided against extending the defender’s four-year contract beyond June 30, 2025.

Mandava made 103 appearances across La Liga while featuring in major domestic and international competitions such as the Copa del Rey, the Champions League and the Club World Cup.

The left-back joined the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s midfielder Noah Sadiki who signed a long-term contract with Sunderland last week.