The Football Faithful
·7 February 2026
Arsenal vs Sunderland – Predicted lineup and team news

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Yahoo sportsThe Football Faithful
·7 February 2026

Arsenal host Sunderland on Saturday while aiming to extend their Premier League lead to nine points.
The Gunners lead the table following their 4–0 win at Leeds. Arsenal remains in high spirits after reaching the Carabao Cup final. Manager Mikel Arteta oversees a side with the league’s best defensive record. They have conceded just 17 goals in 24 matches. Arsenal also dominates on set-pieces, scoring 14 corner goals this season.
Mikel Arteta manages a squad nearing full strength despite some minor concerns. Notably, Bukayo Saka faces a late fitness test for his hip injury. Martin Ødegaard is nearing a return from a minor niggle. Consequently, Arteta may choose to rotate his attacking options. Mikel Merino stays sidelined after undergoing foot surgery.
David Raya will start in goal behind the reliable Saliba and Gabriel pairing. Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori provide defensive stability in the full-back roles. In midfield, Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice will anchor the side. Leandro Trossard is expected to start on the wing after scoring in the reverse fixture. Viktor Gyökeres remains a key threat, having scored four goals against promoted teams.
Arsenal predicted XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Havertz, Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Jesus, Trossard
The Premier League fixture takes place at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, 7 February 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 GMT.
UK fans can listen to live radio commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live. Highlights will be available on Match of the Day at 22:25 GMT.








































