Arsenal return to the Emirates Stadium this Saturday, looking to capitalize on their recent momentum as they host Sunderland in the Premier League. The Gunners are back in a rich vein of form, securing three successive victories to restore a six-point cushion at the summit of the table.
Mikel Arteta’s side put on a masterclass in a 4–0 thrashing of Leeds United last weekend, capitalizing on slip-ups from Manchester City and Aston Villa. Their winning streak continued midweek, as Kai Havertz’s last-gasp winner against Chelsea secured a place in the Carabao Cup final, setting up a Wembley showdown against Man City.
While the cup final awaits in March, the focus this weekend is on the league. Sunderland, currently sitting in eighth place, arrive in north London on the back of an impressive 3–0 victory over Burnley. The Black Cats have proven to be tricky opponents this season, having already beaten Chelsea and drawn with Liverpool on their travels. The reverse fixture earlier this season ended in a 2–2 draw, with Brian Brobbey’s late equalizer denting Arsenal’s title charge.
Head-to-Head Record
The historical trend favors the home side, though Sunderland has managed to frustrate them recently.
- Arsenal: 3 wins
- Sunderland: 0 wins
- Draws: 2
- Last Meeting: Sunderland 2–2 Arsenal (Nov. 8, 2025)
Arsenal Team News
Arteta faces some anxious wait regarding his key personnel. Bukayo Saka is expected to miss out after suffering an injury in the warm-up against Leeds, while captain Martin Ødegaard is a doubt with a minor muscle issue. The squad depth is further tested by the absence of Max Dowman and Mikel Merino, who is out long-term with a foot injury.
The manager also has a dilemma in attack. Viktor Gyökeres struggled midweek and may be replaced by Gabriel Jesus or Havertz, who scored the winner against Chelsea.
Sunderland Team News
Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris will be without his captain, Granit Xhaka, who misses the reunion with his former club due to an ankle injury. Bertrand Traoré is also sidelined. There could be a debut for deadline-day signing Nilson Angulo, while winter arrival Jocelin Ta Bi is being carefully managed for match fitness.
Match Outlook
Sunderland will look to capitalize on any fatigue or complacency from Arsenal, but doing so without their influential captain Xhaka is a tall order. Arsenal’s strength in depth allows Arteta to rotate without losing quality, and they will be eager to extend their lead over Manchester City to nine points before their rivals face Liverpool on Sunday.
For more match previews and team news, visit this page for English Premier League updates.