Nazariy Rusyn’s imminent departure from Sunderland marks the end of what has been an underwhelming chapter in the club’s recent history. The Ukrainian striker, who arrived with significant expectations after his move from the Ukrainian Premier League, is now poised to join Croatian side Hajduk Split on loan. This development, which will see the 26-year-old move to the Croatian club with an option to buy, is not only a reflection of his own struggles to settle into life in England but also a consequence of broader squad changes at Sunderland, which are set to take place as part of a broader strategic overhaul under head coach Regis Le Bris.

Sunderland’s pursuit of Enzo Le Fee and their desire to add a striker to the squad in the ongoing January transfer window have spurred a need to move some players on in order to maintain balance within the squad. With the Black Cats seeking reinforcements, particularly in the attacking department, there is an inevitable consequence of trimming the squad to avoid overcrowding. As a result, players who are not considered key contributors to the squad are being sold or loaned out to make room for new talent. In this context, Rusyn’s departure has become a foregone conclusion. His lack of game time, inconsistent performances, and struggles to establish himself as a regular starter have made it clear that he is surplus to requirements.

Rusyn arrived at Sunderland in the summer of 2023 with a promising reputation. The club had high hopes for the forward, hoping he could add depth and competition to their attacking ranks. However, what followed was a frustrating spell for the Ukrainian, one marked by a series of challenges that hampered his ability to showcase his full potential. In total, Rusyn scored just two goals in 29 appearances during his time in the Championship, with most of those appearances coming from the bench. His time on the pitch was often limited, and his inability to make a lasting impact in the limited opportunities he was given has ultimately led to his exit.

From a footballing perspective, it isn’t that Rusyn lacks talent; rather, his inability to adapt to life in England has played a significant role in his struggles. The challenges of adjusting to a new country, new language, and new style of football are not unique to Rusyn, but they have nonetheless prevented him from settling into the squad. His off-field difficulties in adjusting to his new environment have undoubtedly impacted his on-field performances. In addition to the language barrier and being away from his family, Rusyn found it difficult to adapt to the fast-paced nature of English football, a transition that is often difficult for foreign players, particularly those arriving from less competitive leagues.

Mike Dodds, who played a key role in Sunderland’s coaching staff last season, was one of the few figures who had sympathy for Rusyn’s situation. After a disappointing 2023/24 campaign that saw Sunderland struggle, especially in the latter months, Dodds spoke openly about the challenges faced by the Ukrainian striker. Dodds acknowledged that Rusyn had been through a period of adjustment, particularly regarding his personal life, but also made it clear that there would be pressure on him to perform in the 2024/25 season. Dodds noted that Rusyn’s family was now with him in England, his language skills had improved, and he was more settled in the region. With those personal issues out of the way, Dodds felt that it was time for Rusyn to demonstrate his true ability on the pitch.

However, despite this understanding, Rusyn struggled to break into the starting XI, and his performances failed to live up to the expectations set for him. Dodds’ comments, while sympathetic, also highlighted the pressure that Rusyn faced to step up, and ultimately, he was unable to do so. The striker was not able to secure a regular spot in the team, often finding himself on the bench, and when he did play, he failed to make a strong enough impression to justify a sustained place in the starting lineup. His lack of consistency and inability to adapt to the demands of English football meant that Rusyn’s future at Sunderland was always in doubt.

Rusyn’s time at Sunderland was also overshadowed by the club’s struggles on the field. After a promising start to the 2023/24 season, Sunderland’s campaign faltered in the latter half, and their failure to secure a playoff spot in the Championship meant that many players, including Rusyn, did not have the platform to showcase their abilities. With a new head coach in Regis Le Bris and a renewed focus on strengthening the squad, it was clear that the club was going in a different direction, and Rusyn’s place in that future seemed increasingly uncertain.

For Sunderland, moving Rusyn on is a logical decision, as the club looks to streamline its squad and focus on players who are more suited to the coach’s plans. The arrival of Le Fee and the desire to add a striker mean that space in the squad is limited, and players like Rusyn, who have failed to make a lasting impact, are being moved on to make way for new arrivals. The loan move to Hajduk Split is seen as an opportunity for Rusyn to regain his form and confidence. The Croatian club, which is a regular competitor in European competitions, offers a fresh start in a less demanding league, where Rusyn could have more time and space to develop.

The loan deal to Hajduk Split includes an option to buy, which gives both Sunderland and Rusyn the flexibility to evaluate the situation after the loan spell. If Rusyn impresses in Croatia, the option for a permanent transfer could be triggered, allowing him to move on from Sunderland on a more permanent basis. Alternatively, if his time in Croatia doesn’t work out, Sunderland may look to move him elsewhere, either on loan or permanently. Either way, Rusyn’s future at Sunderland seems all but over, and the loan move to Hajduk Split appears to be the most logical next step for both the player and the club.

While Rusyn’s time at Sunderland may not have worked out as hoped, there is still hope that he can find success in Croatia. Many Sunderland fans will be wishing him well, as they hope he can rediscover his form and show the potential that led to his initial signing. For Sunderland, the focus now shifts to their future, with new signings arriving and a reshaped squad looking to make a stronger push in the second half of the 2024/25 season. The move marks a fresh start for Rusyn, and while it may not have been the success that both he and Sunderland hoped for, it offers a chance for both parties to move forward.