“Coleraine Teen Sensation Stuns with Blockbuster Move to Premier League Newcomers Sunderland – A Star in the Making!”

Coleraine’s Rising Star Matthew Burns Secures Dream Move to Premier League’s Sunderland

In a thrilling development for Northern Irish football, 16-year-old Coleraine prodigy Matthew Burns has sealed a high-profile transfer to Premier League newcomers Sunderland for an undisclosed fee. The talented teenager, who debuted for Coleraine’s Bannsiders at just 15, joins the Black Cats’ prestigious Academy of Light as a first-year scholar in their Under-18 professional development programme, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.

Burns, a Northern Ireland youth international up to Under-17 level, has already made waves in the footballing world. A product of the Irish FA’s JD National Academy Residential programme at Campbell College, Belfast, he recently earned the coveted “Joint Graduate of the Year” award, highlighting his exceptional potential. His move to Sunderland strengthens the club’s growing ties with Northern Ireland, as he joins fellow countrymen Trai Hume, Daniel Ballard, and Rhys Walsh at the Stadium of Light.

Coleraine FC celebrated Burns’ achievements, praising his journey through their academy since age 13. “Matthew’s progression reflects his relentless work ethic, technical prowess, and dedication,” the club stated. “His transfer to a club of Sunderland’s stature underscores the quality of our youth development programme and the commitment of our coaching staff. We are immensely proud and will follow his journey with great pride.”

Burns will integrate into Sunderland’s Under-18 squad, led by coaches Fin Lynch and Jordan Moore, as they prepare for the 2025-26 season. His former school, Dalriada, also expressed immense pride, recalling his popularity and talent. “Matthew’s warm welcome back to Dalriada by Principal Louise Aitcheson and coaches Ian Getty and Paul Gaston was a testament to his impact,” the school shared on social media. “From Dalriada to the Irish FA’s Elite Programme, and now to Sunderland, Matthew’s journey is extraordinary. We wish him every success as a proud Dalriad.”

Burns’ move signals his readiness to compete at the highest levels, with his technical ability and dedication poised to shine in the Premier League environment. As he embarks on this exciting chapter, both Coleraine and Dalriada will be cheering him on, confident that this is just the beginning for the young star.