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Arsenal continue with Mikel Merino up front in their Premier League clash against Sunderland this evening. The Gunners are currently without all three of their recognised strikers as Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres are injured. Merino returns as a No9 in their absence and he did so against Slavia Prague on Tuesday, scoring twice. “He’s such an intelligent and competitive player that he can adapt to any position,” said Mikel Arteta. “Because, first of all, he’s so willing to do his very best, to understand what he needs to do. He’s always asking questions, and he’s a winner. “Wherever he plays, the only thing he wants is to win, to contribute to the team. And when you have that mindset, things normally go well for you.” Arsenal will also be without Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard on Saturday, while Noni Madueke is a doubt, too. Backup goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga makes the bench after missing the win in Prague. Riccardo Calafiori comes back into the defence in place of Piero Hincapie, who is named to the bench. Martin Zubimendi missed Tuesday’s game due to suspension and will return to the base of midfield, partnering Declan Rice. Eberechi Eze was named on the bench in Prague after starting the last six games in a row for Arsenal, but he comes back into the team in place of Ethan Nwaneri. Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Zubimendi; Saka, Eze, Trossard; Merino Subs: Arrizabalaga, Mosquera, White, Hincapie, Norgaard, Nwaneri, Lewis-Skelly, Dowman, Harriman-Annous Injured: Arrizabalaga, Gyokeres, Havertz, Jesus, Madueke, Martinelli and Odegaard Time and date: 5.30pm GMT today, Saturday, November 8, 2025 Venue: Stadium of Light How to watch: Sky Sports
