Arsenal return to the Emirates Stadium knowing that this is exactly the type of fixture they cannot afford to stumble in.
Sunderland arrive in north London with momentum slipping and injuries mounting, while the Gunners continue to find ways to win even when performances fall short of their best.
Arsenal vs Sunderland kick-off time and how to watch
Saturday’s Premier League meeting is scheduled for a 3 pm GMT kick-off on February 7, 2026, with Arsenal hosting Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium.
Supporters in the UK will not be able to watch the match live on television due to the 3 pm Saturday blackout. Instead, highlights will be available later in the day through the Sky Sports app and Sky Sports’ YouTube channel from 5.15 pm.
Match of the Day will also feature extended coverage when it airs on BBC One at 10.25 pm, offering fans a full breakdown of the key moments from north London.
The blackout places added emphasis on being there in person, with Arsenal expected to play in front of a full home crowd as they look to maintain control at the top of the table.
Arsenal vs Sunderland team news and prediction
Arsenal’s main concern continues to be Bukayo Saka, who is expected to remain sidelined until later in the month due to a hip injury. His absence has been felt, but the Gunners have adapted through rotation and tactical flexibility.
Martin Odegaard is another player to watch. The Arsenal captain missed the last two matches and was not involved against Chelsea, with Mikel Arteta describing the issue as a minor problem and expressing hope that Odegaard could be available against Sunderland.
Mikel Merino and Max Dowman are both unavailable with foot and ankle injuries, respectively, limiting Arteta’s options in certain areas of the pitch.
Sunderland’s injury issues are even more disruptive. Captain Granit Xhaka remains out despite positive progress in his recovery, while Arthur Masuaku, Bertrand Traore, and January signing Jocelin Ta Bi are still weeks away from contention.
Those absences have coincided with a drop in form, particularly away from home, where Sunderland have struggled to impose themselves.
Arsenal have not always been fluent, but they have developed a habit of grinding out results through the winter schedule. That resilience, combined with Sunderland’s depleted squad and poor away record, points toward a comfortable home win.
The prediction is an Arsenal victory, 3-0.
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