AliousClaudio Ranieri has addressed Enzo Le Fee’s impending transfer to Sunderland, shedding light on the circumstances that led to the French midfielder’s departure from Roma.
The move, a significant achievement for Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman, reunites Le Fee with his former coach Régis Le Bris, who previously guided him during a standout spell at FC Lorient.
Le Fee has struggled for game time since joining Roma, making just nine appearances across Serie A and the Europa League in the first half of the 2024/25 season.
His frustration with limited opportunities has been a key factor in his decision to leave Italy.
Sunderland’s deal involves an initial loan, with a permanent transfer contingent on their promotion to the Premier League.
Ranieri, speaking via Roma’s official channels, expressed his regret over Le Fee’s lack of playing time, attributing it to unfortunate timing and the club’s managerial changes.
“Le Fee had the misfortune of arriving during a coaching transition,” Ranieri explained.
“I never had the chance to fully evaluate him as I had other priorities. But he’s a talented player, and I was sorry to see him go.”
Ranieri acknowledged the midfielder’s connection with Le Bris as a decisive factor in the move.
“He’s going to England to work with a coach who knows him well and gave him confidence before.
It’s a logical decision,” he said. The Roma manager also pointed out the potential benefits for the club, whether Le Fee returns after gaining Premier League experience or the transfer results in a financial gain.
Le Fee’s reunion with Le Bris is expected to reignite his form.
The midfielder thrived under the Sunderland manager’s guidance during the 2022/23 Ligue 1 season, and there is optimism that Le Bris can help the 24-year-old rediscover his best performances.
Given Le Fee’s talent, he could become a standout player in the Championship, strengthening Sunderland’s bid for promotion.
Alious
