Sunderland will be without Romaine Mundle and Habib Diarra when they host Premier League champions Arsenal at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
Regis Le Bris confirmed both players remain unavailable as Sunderland look to extend their unbeaten run to four matches in all competitions.
The Black Cats have recovered well from their opening defeat to Ipswich Town, beating Fulham and Hull City while drawing with Brentford. However, Arsenal will represent a significant step up after winning all five of their matches so far this season.
Mundle facing lengthy Sunderland absence
Mundle suffered a knee injury during Sunderland's 1-0 victory over Fulham at the end of August.
The winger had enjoyed an encouraging pre-season but now faces several months on the sidelines.
"Romaine has a knee injury, which is a shame because he had a good pre-season," Le Bris said.
"We will support him and hope he is ready by the end of the year."
That timetable means Mundle could remain unavailable throughout much of Sunderland's autumn schedule, with a return currently targeted for late 2026.
Diarra to miss Arsenal and AZ Alkmaar
Diarra was also injured during the victory over Fulham, suffering a hamstring problem.
Le Bris confirmed the midfielder remains "in the middle of his recovery", ruling him out of Saturday's meeting with Arsenal.
Diarra is also expected to miss Sunderland's Europa League encounter with AZ Alkmaar before potentially returning after the international break.
His absence leaves Le Bris likely to select from essentially the same group available for Sunderland's previous two matches.
Le Bris outlines Arsenal challenge
Sunderland have won both of their home matches this season without conceding, but Le Bris accepts that record faces its toughest examination yet.
"They are flying right now," he said of Arsenal. "They are one of the best teams in Europe and are on a strong run."
Rather than radically changing Sunderland's approach, Le Bris wants his players to embrace their underdog status and use the Stadium of Light atmosphere to make life uncomfortable for Mikel Arteta's champions.
"Our underdog mentality, togetherness and connection with the fans is crucial," he added.
Sunderland managed a 2-2 draw with Arsenal in the corresponding fixture last season, providing further encouragement ahead of Saturday night's contest.
Key Points
- Sunderland will be without Romaine Mundle and Habib Diarra against Arsenal.
- Mundle has a knee injury and is targeting a return towards the end of 2026.
- Diarra is recovering from a hamstring injury and should return sooner, potentially after the international break.
- Sunderland are unbeaten in their last three matches and have not conceded at home this season.
- Le Bris wants Sunderland's underdog mentality and home support to make Arsenal uncomfortable.
What's Next?
Sunderland host Arsenal on Saturday before turning their attention to their Europa League meeting with AZ Alkmaar.
Diarra is expected to miss both fixtures, while Mundle faces a considerably longer rehabilitation. Le Bris will therefore have to rely on his existing options as Sunderland attempt to halt Arsenal's perfect start.
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