Sunderland announce key departure of Kristjaan Speakman
Sunderland have announced the shock exit of Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman following five years at the club.
During his tenure, Speakman saw a mass overhaul at the football club that saw them climb from the depths of League One to the highs of the Premier League.
With Speakman’s departure, the club have announced that Florent Ghisolfi, the club’s current Director of Football, will continue to lead all football operations.
Sunderland AFC today confirms that Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman has left the Club with immediate effect.
Everyone at SAFC thanks Kristjaan for his contribution and wishes him every success for the future.
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) February 13, 2026
In the club statement, chairman and majority shareholder, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus said: “Kristjaan has made an important contribution to Sunderland AFC during a period of significant transition.
“Strong foundations have been established throughout our football operations over the past five years, and that phase of redevelopment is now complete.
“We are grateful for Krisjaan’s commitment and professionalism and wish him every success for the future.”
In his five years, Sunderland won three times at Wembley for the first time since 1973; the Papa John’s Trophy, League One Play-off Final and most recently, the Championship Play-Off Final.
Speakman oversaw key signings like Ross Stewart, Trai Hume and Dan Ballard, while also playing a part in appointing current Head Coach Regis Le Bris, who has revitalised the club upon his arrival.
Following the club’s promotion to the Premier League, Sunderland announced Florent Ghisolfi as the club’s Director of Football to work alongside Speakman.
During the summer window, they made 14 signings with signings like Granit Xhaka, Robin Roefs and Noah Sadiki helping Sunderland to a remarkable first season in the Premier League.
