Arsenal vs Sunderland preview as leaders face rising challengersArsenal return to Premier League action intent on protecting a six point lead at the summit as Sunderland arrive at the Emirates with am...
Arsenal vs Sunderland preview as leaders face rising challengers
Arsenal return to Premier League action intent on protecting a six point lead at the summit as Sunderland arrive at the Emirates with ambition and belief. The Gunners have built momentum through consistency rather than spectacle, losing just once in their last 15 matches, and edging past Chelsea in the Carabao Cup courtesy of a late Kai Havertz strike.
This fixture carries the familiar scent of a potential banana skin. Sunderland have been one of the season’s most engaging stories, sitting eighth in their first campaign back in the top flight. Their early energy has cooled slightly, with just two wins in the last nine, yet the scale of their progress remains impressive and they travel to north London with little to lose.
Emirates stage and broadcast information
Arsenal vs Sunderland kicks off at 3pm GMT on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Emirates Stadium in north London.
The match will not be shown live in the UK due to the Saturday afternoon blackout. Highlights will be available on the Sky Sports app and YouTube channel from 5.15pm, with Match of the Day airing on BBC One at 22.25pm.
Injury concerns shape selection choices
Mikel Arteta approaches this fixture with several key fitness questions. Bukayo Saka is expected to remain sidelined until later in the month due to a hip injury. Martin Odegaard has missed Arsenal’s last two matches and was absent from the squad against Chelsea, with Arteta explaining that his captain has a “little niggle.”
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The Arsenal manager added, “Let’s see if he’s available for the weekend [against Sunderland], hopefully.”
Mikel Merino and Max Dowman are both unavailable with foot and ankle injuries.
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Sunderland’s own injury list is significant. Captain Granit Xhaka will miss the trip despite making progress in his recovery from an ankle problem. Arthur Masuaku, Bertrand Traore and January signing Jocelin Ta Bi remain weeks away from selection.
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Prediction framed by form and resilience
Arsenal’s recent performances have not always sparkled, yet they have shown a champion’s ability to manage games and emerge with points during a demanding winter schedule. Squad depth and tactical discipline have allowed them to pull clear at the top.
Sunderland’s form has dipped since losing Xhaka, and their struggles away from home remain a concern. Against a settled and ruthless Arsenal side, this feels a step too far.
Arsenal to win, 3-1.
Sunderland are seeking a first win over Arsenal since 2012 and their first away success in this fixture since 2002. Arsenal have won 63 meetings between the sides, with Sunderland claiming 50 victories and 42 draws.
Category: General Sports
