Sunderland Sign Ex-Atletico Madrid Defender Reinildo Mandava on Two-Year Deal

Sunderland Sign Ex-Atletico Madrid Defender Reinildo Mandava on Two-Year Deal

 

Sunderland have completed the signing of experienced defender Reinildo Mandava on a two-year contract following his departure from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid.

 

The 31-year-old Mozambique international, widely known as Reinildo, arrives at the Stadium of Light as a free agent after his contract with Atletico expired at the end of their recent Club World Cup campaign.

 

The Black Cats have moved swiftly to secure the services of the versatile left-back, who also has experience playing as a central defender. Reinildo brings a wealth of top-level European experience to Wearside, having competed in both the UEFA Champions League and La Liga in recent seasons.

 

Reinildo joined Atletico Madrid in January 2022 from French club Lille, where he played a key role in their remarkable Ligue 1 title-winning campaign in 2020-21 under Christophe Galtier. He became a regular fixture in Diego Simeone’s side during his time in Spain, amassing 99 appearances across all competitions.

 

Known for his aggressive defensive style, athleticism, and tactical intelligence, Reinildo earned plaudits during his time in Madrid, particularly for his performances in big European fixtures. However, a serious knee injury in 2023 sidelined him for much of that year, and although he returned to fitness, he found opportunities limited in a competitive Atletico squad.

 

Speaking to the club’s media team, Reinildo expressed his excitement at beginning a new chapter in England:

 

> “Sunderland is a club with a strong history and a big following. I’ve heard a lot about the atmosphere here and I’m excited to be part of it. I’m here to give everything for the team, help the young players, and bring my experience to the squad.”

 

Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman welcomed the signing, highlighting Reinildo’s pedigree and leadership:

 

> “We’re delighted to bring Reinildo to Sunderland. His experience at the highest levels of European football speaks for itself. He will add real quality and depth to our defensive options, and we believe he will be an important figure both on and off the pitch.”

 

The move represents a significant coup for Sunderland, who narrowly missed out on a Championship play-off spot last season and are aiming to mount a stronger promotion push under new head coach Regis Le Bris. Reinildo’s arrival adds much-needed experience to a largely youthful squad.

 

Born in Beira, Mozambique, Reinildo has earned over 30 caps for his country and is regarded as one of the nation’s finest football exports. He has represented Mozambique at multiple Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaigns and brings international leadership to the Sunderland dressing room.

 

Reinildo is expected to join up with the squad immediately ahead of their pre-season fixtures and could make his debut in their opening friendly next week.

 

Fans will be eager to see the Mozambican defender in action, hoping his elite-level experience will be a major asset in Sunderland’s push for Premier League football.

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