Abdul Samed is heading back to RC Lens following the end of his loan spell at Sunderland, the English club has confirmed.
The Ghanaian midfielder joined Sunderland on transfer deadline day during the 2024/25 season and, while his time on the pitch was limited, his presence proved valuable in other ways.
Samed featured in 11 matches, starting only three but played an influential role behind the scenes as Sunderland secured promotion to the Premier League.
His return to Lens comes with three years still left on his contract at the French club.
With Lens set for a fresh start under new manager Pierre Sage, Samed’s future remains uncertain but he could be given a chance to stake his claim during pre-season, depending on whether Sage includes him in his plans.
Despite his limited minutes, Samed’s short stint at Sunderland adds his name to a small but notable list of Ghanaian players to have worn the club’s red and white stripes, joining the likes of Asamoah Gyan and John Mensah, who both made strong impressions during their own spells in the North East.
For now, Samed returns to France with valuable experience under his belt and a clearer idea of what top-level English football demands.
What’s next for him will largely depend on how he fits into Sage’s blueprint at Lens.
FKA/AME
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