Aji Alese - Soccer News, Rumors, & Updates | FOX Sports

Fit to play with reserve Alese (shoulder) is fit to play with the reserve and is unlikely to feature with the senior squad this season.

Impact Alese has recovered from a shoulder injury suffered one year ago with the Black Cats and is fit to play for the reserve team in Friday's Wear-Tyne derby. The defender is unlikely to return to the senior squad and feature under coach Regis Le Bris this season, as Sunderland signed several options in the backline last summer, with Reinildo starting in his spot and establishing himself as an undisputed figure moving forward.

JANUARY 16 • ROTOWIRE

Suffers setback in recovery Alese (shoulder) suffered a setback in his recovery process and is not ready to return yet, manager Regis Le Bris told media during his pre-match press conference Thursday. "Aji ha...

Impact Alese has yet to play this season, and this latest setback suggests the defender won't see the field for the Black Cats anytime soon. Even when he's deemed available, Alese is expected to hold a rotational role behind Reinildo, so his fantasy upside will be almost minimal.

OCTOBER 2, 2025 • ROTOWIRE

Nearing return Alese (shoulder) is nearing a return from injury, according to the Sunderland Echo.

Impact Alese has resumed team training last week and is nearing a return from his long term shoulder injury. The defender was a regular starter last season in the Championship when available, but he will likely hold a rotational role behind Reinildo in the backline.

SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 • ROTOWIRE

Yet to recover from injury Alese (shoulder) hasn't recovered from his injury and doesn't have a clear timetable for a return to action, Pranav Shahaney of Mackem News reports.

Impact Alese last played for Sunderland in January during the 2024/25 Championship season, and it's uncertain when he'll be able to suit up for the Black Cats. He's one of several players dealing with injuries in the backline, as Daniel Ballard (groin), Luke O'Nien (shoulder), Leo Hjelde (Achilles) and Dennis Cirkin (wrist) are also navigating fitness issues.

SEPTEMBER 5, 2025 • ROTOWIRE

Won't be ready to start season Alese (shoulder) is still recovering from his surgery and is expected to miss the opening three games of the season, according to his club.

Impact Alese started the offseason with shoulder surgery and is still recovering from the operation. This does mean he will take some time to get to full health again, with the club now expecting him to miss the first three games of the season against West Ham, Burnley and Brentford. This will mean the defender is not expected to join the team again until September, hoping no setbacks delay him.

JULY 11, 2025 • ROTOWIRE