Arsenal’s Lineup: Big Names Return
Arsenal’s clash against Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium comes with exciting changes. Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both return to the starting XI, signaling intent to dominate. Havertz, fresh off his last-minute winner against Chelsea, earns only his second league start of the season. Jesus replaces Viktor Gyökeres up front, bringing pace and unpredictability to Arsenal’s attack. David Raya returns in goal, Riccardo Calafiori makes his first league start of 2026 at left-back, and Leandro Trossard replaces Martinelli on the wing. With Ødegaard, Saka, and Merino still absent, Gabriel Magalhães takes the captain’s armband.
Arsenal Starting XI: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Zubimendi, Rice, Havertz, Trossard, Madueke, Jesus
Substitutes: Arrizabalaga, Mosquera, White, Hincapié, Eze, Martinelli, Gyökeres, Nørgaard, Lewis-Skelly
This lineup reflects Arsenal’s depth and adaptability. Rice and Zubimendi anchor the midfield, while Havertz and Trossard are tasked with creativity in the absence of key stars.
Sunderland’s Consistency and the Battle Ahead
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has opted for continuity, sticking with the same XI that defeated Burnley 3-0 earlier in the week. Former Arsenal academy player Dan Ballard anchors their defense, adding an emotional twist to the matchup. Granit Xhaka, however, misses out due to injury, denying fans a reunion with the former Arsenal midfielder.
Sunderland Starting XI: Roefs, Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Mandava, Hume, Sadiki, Le Fée, Diarra, Talbi, Brobbey
Substitutes: Elborg, Geertruida, Cirkin, Rigg, O’Nien, Mundele, Angulo, Isidor, Mayenda
Sunderland’s strength lies in discipline and teamwork. Brobbey’s pace up front could trouble Arsenal’s defense if the Gunners push too high. For American fans, this fixture embodies the Premier League’s charm: Arsenal’s star power versus Sunderland’s grit. Expect Arsenal to dominate possession, but Sunderland’s counterattacks could make this a nail-biting contest.