Is Granit Xhaka fit to face Arsenal? Sunderland team news after Regis Le Bris confirms injury latest | OneFootball

Sunderland captain has discussed an emotional reunion with his former club

Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has confirmed that Omar Alderete will miss the Premier League clash against Arsenal.

However, they will take on Mikel Arteta’s side without Alderete.

When pressed for an update in the pre-match press conference on Friday, Le Bris explained that the Paraguay international will not be risked this weekend.

Le Bris reporters: “He had to step back because of symptoms. It’s not serious, but the protocol is strict. He won’t be available this weekend.

“Hopefully he will go away with his national team and gain some valuable minutes.”

Sidelined: Omar Alderete

AFP via Getty Images

Le Bris also offered an update on Habib Diarra, who underwent groin surgery in September and is scheduled to return to action in before the end of the year.

“Habib is in a good place,” Le Bris added. “We won’t rush the process because he is still young and it was a significant injury.”

Is Granit Xhaka fit to face Arsenal?

Yes, Granit Xhaka is in contention to face his former club for the first time in a competitive fixture since his departure in the summer of 2023.

The midfielder opened his account for Sunderland against Everton on Monday night and is looking forward to an emotional reunion with his old team-mates and manager, Arteta.

“We know the quality that Arsenal has,” Xhaka told Sky Sports. “It will be an emotional game for myself. I had seven amazing years there.

“I still have contact with many players, with the coaching staff, and to play against them, here in Sunderland, is very special.

“Hopefully, I can enjoy it as well and let’s see who is the better team on this day.”