Sat Feb 07 14:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Arsenal Shakes Up Lineup for Sunderland Clash Amid Injury Concerns
The Story:
Arsenal has announced its starting lineup for the Premier League match against Sunderland, featuring several changes from the team that secured a midweek cup win. Key players Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz return to the starting eleven, with Havertz making his second league start of the season after scoring the winning goal against Chelsea. The lineup also sees David Raya back in goal and Riccardo Calafiori making his first league start of 2026 at left-back. However, notable absentees include Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, forcing Gabriel to captain the team. Sunderland fields a consistent lineup, including former Arsenal academy graduate Dan Ballard.
Key Points:
- Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz return to Arsenal’s starting lineup.
- Havertz makes his second league start after scoring the winner against Chelsea.
- David Raya replaces Arrizabalaga in goal.
- Riccardo Calafiori makes his first league start of 2026.
- Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka are absent due to injury.
- Gabriel captains Arsenal in their absence.
- Sunderland fields an unchanged lineup from their 3-0 victory over Burnley.
- Former Arsenal academy graduate Dan Ballard starts for Sunderland.
Key Takeaways:
- Arsenal’s lineup changes suggest a strategic approach to manage player fitness and capitalize on recent performances, particularly Havertz’s.
- The absence of key players like Odegaard and Saka highlights the importance of squad depth for Arsenal’s title aspirations.
- Sunderland’s consistent lineup indicates confidence in their recent form and tactical approach.
First Piper 