Solid Sunderland face their stiffest test yet when Premier League champions Arsenal visit the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

The Gunners visit a ground they dropped points at in dramatic fashion last season.

The Premier League champions could look to cut costs but are also eying improvements in other areas to help maintain their status.

Mikel Arteta once hired pickpockets to keep his Arsenal players alert.

Arsenal make the tricky trip to face Sunderland on Saturday night

Arsenal’s squad looks strong, though not flawless. Cristhian Mosquera has missed back to back matches after suffering a muscle injury against Aston Villa, and he remains a doubt here. Jurrien Timber has yet to play this season after minor summer surgery, but he is back in first-team training and travelled to Naples, which suggests he is close.

Arsenal have made an offer to double Raphinha's salary if he chooses to sign from Barcelona in January, according to reports.

Premier League champions Arsenal are conducting a cost review after bringing in a management consultancy firm following one of the best seasons in their history

Arsenal have been in talks with several of their players over new contracts, but the most important deal they can renew at the moment is that of Mikel Arteta, and the Gunners are working to secure his future.

The Spaniard is the Premier League’s longest-serving manager—and won’t be overtaken soon.