Premier League newly promoted Sunderland lost 0-1 to Real Betis in a friendly match at the Stadium of Light. Mandava, who played for Sunderland for the first time, said that he is working hard to recover his physical condition and looks forward to participating in the Premier League with the team.

The 31-year-old defender, who previously played for Atletico Madrid in La Liga, joined Sunderland last month on a two-year contract.

Talking about playing at Sunderland's home ground for the first time, Mandawa said in an interview, "This is a special moment for me. It means a lot to me to be able to play my first game at this stadium. This is something I have been looking forward to since joining the team. It feels great to put on this jersey and stand on the court, and to start building a tacit understanding on the court."

"I feel good now and it's the first time I've played 60 minutes in a while, which is an important step for me. I'm working hard every day in training to be in top shape for the start of the season and games like this are really helpful in my preparation."

Mandawa said, "From a physical point of view, I am slowly getting back into shape and becoming more and more familiar with the team's tactical style."

On the other hand, Sunderland will play against Augsburg and Rayo Vallecano in the next friendly matches, and in the first round of the 2025/26 Premier League season, Sunderland will host West Ham at home.

Mandawa said, "We will continue to work hard. We still have two friendly matches to complete our preparations, and everyone is looking forward to the opening match against West Ham. We will be ready."