League leaders Arsenal welcome eighth-placed Sunderland to the Emirates Stadium on Saturday afternoon, seeking to extend their lead at the top to nine points.
Mikel Arteta’s side arrives in high spirits after a dominant week. They recently demolished Leeds United 4–0. Furthermore, they secured a place in the Carabao Cup final after beating Chelsea 1–0. However, Sunderland remains a dangerous “surprise package” this season. The Black Cats are the only division side with an unbeaten home record. They already took points off Arsenal in a dramatic 2–2 draw last November. Conversely, Régis Le Bris’s men have failed to win their last seven away league games.
Arsenal vs Sunderland – Match preview and team news
- Date: Saturday, 7 February 2026
- Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
- Venue: Emirates Stadium, London
- Referee: Samuel Barrott
- VAR: Michael Salisbury
- Last Meeting: Sunderland 2–2 Arsenal (8 Nov 2025), Premier League
Team News
Arsenal
Mikel Arteta confirmed Bukayo Saka is recovering well from a hip injury. A late decision will determine his involvement in the squad. Martin Ødegaard is nearing a return from a minor “niggle”. Additionally, Jurriën Timber is fit and available for selection. However, midfielder Mikel Merino remains out following foot surgery. Kai Havertz should lead the line following his winning goal against Chelsea.
Sunderland
The Black Cats miss influential captain Granit Xhaka due to an ankle injury. Bertrand Traoré and Arthur Masuaku are also unavailable following AFCON-related injuries. On a positive note, deadline-day signing Nilson Angulo is fit for a potential debut. Brian Brobbey will spearhead the attack. He has netted three goals in his last four games.
Form
Arsenal
The Gunners sit seven points clear at the summit after beating Leeds. Arsenal are unbeaten in 18 home league games against Sunderland since 1983. They currently boast a 43-match unbeaten home run against newly promoted sides. Notably, this record equals the all-time Premier League milestone. Arteta’s side has also scored a league-high 14 goals from corners this term.
Sunderland
Sunderland sits eighth in the table after a stellar campaign. They recently secured an emphatic 3–0 victory over Burnley. Notably, the Black Cats possess a league-best goals-conceded ratio of 7.7%. This efficiency comes despite facing the third-most shots in the division. However, their away form is poor with no wins in seven matches.
Predicted Lineups
Arsenal Predicted XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Havertz, Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Jesus, Trossard
Sunderland Predicted XI: Roefs; Hume, Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Reinildo; Le Fee, Diarra, Sadiki, Talbi; Brobbey
How to Watch Arsenal vs Sunderland?
The match will not air live in the UK due to the blackout. Radio commentary is available on BBC Radio 5 Live. Match of the Day will show highlights on BBC One at 22:25 GMT.
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