Arsenal host Sunderland in a Premier League match on Saturday, February 7. Both teams arrive here fresh off emphatic league wins, though Arsenal’s was particularly therapeutic.
Leeds were used as a convenient emotional outlet, smashed 4-0 as the Gunners reminded everyone they’re still very good at football.
Sunderland also enjoyed themselves, dispatching Burnley 3-0 to keep their flawless home record intact.
Away from the Stadium of Light, however, things have been…less inspiring. Seven away games without a win suggest the Black Cats treat road trips like optional side quests rather than mandatory league fixtures.
The history of this matchup doesn’t exactly scream ‘upset’ either. Arsenal haven’t lost to Sunderland at home since November 1983, and they haven’t suffered consecutive Emirates defeats since April 2022.
At this point, Sunderland beating Arsenal in North London would require divine intervention, a glitch in the matrix, or both.
Regis Le Bris must attempt this particular mission without Granit Xhaka, former Gunner, current captain, and Midfield general. Removing him from the equation doesn’t exactly help when you’re already facing a side that enjoys keeping possession for fun.
There is at least some good news for Sunderland in the form of Habib Diarra’s return from injury and AFCON. The Senegalese midfielder finally opened his goal-scoring account on Monday, though the Premier League did its best to steal his joy by reclassifying his first strike as an own goal.
Dreams are temporary. Official rulings are forever.
Arsenal’s only real concern is the possible absence of Bukayo Saka, who sat out the second leg of their League Cup semi-final against Chelsea.
Mikel Arteta will no doubt be devastated he only has a small army of Internationals he can replace him with. He definitely won’t use it as an excuse if they do get beaten.
What are the best bets for Arsenal vs Sunderland?
Arsenal to win
Sunderland did manage a 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture, which was impressive, but also, this is not Wearside. This is the Emirates, where Arsenal tend to remember how good they are.
On paper, statistically, historically, and spiritually, this fixture points in one direction. But football being football, Sunderland will still fancy their chances – largely because they’ve spent all season ignoring what they’re “supposed” to do.
That said, this is the kind of match Arsenal need to win if they’re serious about banishing the ‘bottlejobs’ label they have stuck to their own foreheads. Dropping points here would be vintage Arsenal. Winning comfortably would suggest actual progress.
Without Xhaka, Sunderland’s task goes from difficult to borderline unreasonable, especially given their allergy to away victories. Expect Arsenal to assert themselves, extend Le Bris’ travel sickness, and send Sunderland back up the road with nothing but a polite applause for effort.
Where can I watch Arsenal vs Sunderland?
Supporters in the United States can watch live on NBC Sports, with kick-off scheduled for 10:00 am EST.
What is Arsenal’s current form?
W-D-D-L-W
What is Sunderland’s current form?
D-L-W-L-W
What were the results of the last five head-to-head matches between Arsenal and Sunderland?
08/11/25 – Sunderland 2-2 Arsenal (Premier League)
21/12/21 – Arsenal 5-1 Sunderland (EFL Cup)
16/05/17 – Arsenal 2-0 Sunderland (Premier League)
29/10/16 – Sunderland 1-4 Arsenal (Premier League)
24/04/16 – Sunderland 0-0 Arsenal (Premier League)
What is Arsenal’s predicted team?
Raya – Timber – Gabriel – Saliba – Hincapie – Eze – Zubimendi – Rice – Madueke – Gyokores – Martinelli
What is Sunderland’s predicted team?
Roefs – Hume – Mukiele – Ballard – Alderete – Reinildo – Sadiki – Le Fee – Diarra – Talbi – Brobbey
READ NEXT: Premier League Parlay picks as Man United clash with Tottenham on Saturday
18+ Please play responsibly. This content is informational, not financial advice.
