Sunderland Teenager Chris Rigg Signs First Professional Contract, Promising to Deliver on Club’s Expectations

Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg, who is also the captain of the England Under-17 team, has signed his first professional contract with the club. The 17-year-old academy graduate has agreed to a three-year deal that will keep him at the Stadium of Light until at least 2027.

Rigg made history at the age of 15 when he became Sunderland’s youngest debutant during an FA Cup match against Fulham in February 2023. Just a year later, he became the youngest goalscorer in the club’s history at the age of 16 during an EFL Cup match against Crewe Alexandra.

Having made 22 appearances and scoring three goals in his breakthrough season, Rigg expressed his excitement about signing his professional contract. He stated, “I am absolutely buzzing. I have been dying to sign for almost a year now. The hard work starts now but I am looking forward to making many more memories representing this Club.”

Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman also commended Rigg’s talent and performance on the field, noting that the interest and speculation surrounding him was inevitable. Speakman highlighted the commitment Rigg has shown to the club by signing his future with Sunderland.