Nordi Mukiele Mulere, born on November 1, 1997, in Montreuil, France, has emerged as one of Europe’s most versatile and resilient defenders.
With a career spanning top-flight leagues in France, Germany, and now England, Mukiele’s journey reflects a blend of raw talent, strategic career moves, and an unyielding drive that has seen him compete at the highest levels, including Champions League nights and international caps.
Mukiele began his football journey at Paris FC before moving to Stade Lavallois at the age of 16. He made his professional debut in November 2014 against AJ Auxerre, showcasing his potential early on. His performances caught the attention of Ligue 1 club Montpellier, who signed him in January 2017 for a reported €1.35 million.
At Montpellier, Mukiele’s versatility became evident; he played primarily as a right-back but also filled in as a center-back and right midfielder, adapting to various tactical setups.
In 2018, Mukiele made a significant move to Bundesliga side RB Leipzig for €16 million. At Leipzig, he continued to develop under the guidance of coaches like Julian Nagelsmann. His time in Germany was marked by consistent performances, including a DFB-Pokal victory in the 2021–22 season.
Mukiele’s adaptability allowed him to thrive in various defensive roles, contributing both defensively and offensively.
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Mukiele’s next chapter took him back to France with Paris Saint-Germain in 2022. At PSG, he added two Ligue 1 titles to his collection, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier defender. However, with limited playing time under manager Luis Enrique, Mukiele sought more regular first-team football.
This led to a loan move to Bayer Leverkusen in August 2024. At Leverkusen, Mukiele reunited with former Leipzig teammate Granit Xhaka. Despite making 15 Bundesliga appearances, he faced challenges in securing a consistent starting spot.
In August 2025, Mukiele made a pivotal move to the Premier League, signing a four-year contract with Sunderland AFC. The club, newly promoted to the top flight, secured his services for a reported £12 million.
Manager Regis Le Bris expressed confidence in Mukiele’s ability to bolster the team’s defense. “His experience in top European competitions and versatility will be invaluable as we aim to establish ourselves in the Premier League,” Le Bris stated. Mukiele’s arrival is seen as a statement of intent by Sunderland, aiming to strengthen their squad for the challenges ahead.
Standing at 1.87 meters, Mukiele combines physical presence with technical ability. His right-footedness and adaptability to various defensive positions make him a valuable asset to Sunderland’s defensive lineup.
His previous experiences in top-tier leagues and European competitions have equipped him with the necessary skills and mindset to succeed in the Premier League.
Off the pitch, Mukiele is known for his calm demeanor and professionalism. In his first interview as a Sunderland player, he expressed enthusiasm about the club’s ambitions and the opportunity to contribute to their success. “I’m excited to be here and ready to give my best for the team,” Mukiele remarked.
Mukiele’s journey from Montreuil to the Premier League is a testament to his dedication and adaptability. As Sunderland embarks on its Premier League campaign, Mukiele’s experience and versatility will be crucial in navigating the challenges of top-flight football.
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