Despite being on Wearside for only three years, Eliezer Mayenda leaves Sunderland a cult hero. Earlier today, the striker left Premier League Sunderland to join Stade Rennais on a permanent transfer. It’s a deal that nets the Black Cats a huge profit, with the transfer fee believed to be around £22 million, meaning a £21 million profit on the 21-year-old.
Read More: Sunderland Exceeded All Expectations Last Season And Deserved Every Plaudit
Eliezer Mayenda Leaves Sunderland a Cult Hero
The “Big Man” Gave Fans Memories That Will Last a Lifetime
Despite a difficult first season at the Stadium of Light, where he went on loan to Scottish Premiership side Hibernian, he began to flourish once current boss Regis Le Bris took over.
That season he became an important member of the first team, whether he played as the main striker or on the wing. He played with his heart on his sleeve, scoring important goals as the Black Cats finished in the Championship playoff places.
It was in the playoffs especially that the Spain U21 international gave fans moments that will live forever in the club’s history.
A winner in the playoff semifinal first leg gave Sunderland a lead to take back to the Stadium of Light for the second leg, a game that gave what would be arguably the greatest moment ever at the Stadium of Light.
On to Wembley and with Sunderland trailing, up stepped the Big Man to equalise with a thunderous strike. It was a goal that turned the game against Sheffield United in the playoff final, with the Black Cats beating the Blades 2-1 thanks to a last-minute goal.
Following promotion back to the Premier League, Mayenda would score the first goal in the first game back after nine years, a 3-0 victory over West Ham. The goal kickstarted a season that few imagined, ending with qualification for this coming season’s Europa League.
As the season went on, the form of Brian Brobbey, amongst others, began to restrict his playing time, and a move in search of regular starts was on the cards.
He may have only stayed three seasons, but he left his mark and fans will always remember the big man who played a big part in getting the club back to where they belong.
Eliezer Mayenda Leaves Sunderland a Cult Hero and Sends Message Club and the Fans
Eliezer Mayenda, affectionately known as “Big Man” by supporters, posted a message to Sunderland and their fans before leaving. He said: “Three years ago, I arrived at Sunderland as a young player with big dreams. Today, I leave with memories and emotions that I will carry with me forever. I had the privilege of wearing this shirt, sharing unforgettable moments with my teammates and experience that magical day at Wembley with all of you, when we helped bring Sunderland back where it belongs: the Premier League.
“I would like to thank Chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus. Thank you for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to join this incredible club. I will always be grateful. Thank you to my teammates, the staff and everyone who works so hard every day to make this club what it is. And finally…
“To you, the supporters. From day one, you believed in me. Season after season, you stood by me. I arrived here as Eliezer. I leave as your “Big Man”. I’ll carry that name with me forever. You have to experience Sunderland to truly understand what “Sunderland ‘Til I Die” really means. As I leave this club, one thing is certain: Sunderland will always be a part of me. Thank you for everything. HA’WAY THE LADS. Eliezer Mayenda. Your Big Man.”
Read More: Sunderland Defender Confirms His Exit
Featured image courtesy of IMAGO / Pro Sports
