Sunderland transfer story breaks as Bruno Guimarães trolls Black Cats and new signing is revealed – moments missed
The moments Sunderland supporters may have missed before, during and after the Black Cats’ clash with Arsenal
Sunderland welcomed reigning Premier League champions Arsenal to the Stadium of Light for their toughest test of the new season, with plenty also happening away from the main action.
Régis Le Bris’ side began the weekend 12th in the table after collecting four points from their opening three games. Their previous Premier League outing had ended in a hard-earned 1-1 draw at Brentford, where Enzo Le Fée converted a late penalty.
Arsenal arrived second following victories over Coventry City, Aston Villa and Chelsea, plus a midweek Champions League win against Napoli. The clubs had drawn 2-2 on Wearside last season before Arsenal won the return 3-0.
Here, we look at some of the moments you may have missed before, during and after Sunderland’s meeting with the Gunners:
Sunderland join race for highly-rated Norwegian prospect
A fresh Sunderland transfer story emerged around the game, with the Black Cats reportedly monitoring Norwegian teenager Gabriel Rajkovic. TEAMtalk reported that Arsenal and Chelsea were leading the race for the 15-year-old, who is regarded as one of the most exciting young players in European football. Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham have also watched Rajkovic in recent weeks.
Newcastle United, Brighton, Brentford, Aston Villa, Leeds United and Sunderland were named among the other clubs keeping tabs on his development after being made aware of his potential. The report pointed only to Sunderland monitoring the youngster, rather than making an approach or offer.
Juan Angulo introduced at the Stadium of Light
Sunderland supporters were given their first look at deadline-day signing Juan Angulo before kick-off. The attacker was introduced to the Stadium of Light crowd following his late arrival. Angulo walked onto the pitch and acknowledged the home support as his name was announced. His presentation allowed the new recruit to experience the stadium atmosphere before becoming involved.
Bruno smiled through hostile Sunderland welcome
Former Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimarães received a predictably hostile reception on his return to the Stadium of Light. The Brazilian, who moved from Newcastle to Arsenal during the summer, was booed by Sunderland supporters as he made his way into the ground.
Bruno appeared unfazed and turned towards the fans with a cheeky smile. It added an edge before kick-off and indicated the reception awaiting him if he entered the game.
Arteta booking delighted the home crowd
Mikel Arteta found himself in the referee’s notebook during a tight and tense opening half. The Arsenal head coach was shown a yellow card following his reaction on the touchline, prompting one of the loudest cheers of the first 45 minutes.
Sunderland’s fans contested every challenge and decision as their side stood firm against the champions. Arteta’s booking added to the needle inside the ground, with the home support making its delight clear as he returned to his technical area.
Mukiele caused concern before Ballard appealed
Nordi Mukiele sparked an injury worry in the 42nd minute when he went down holding his leg. The defender had been excellent, helping Sunderland remain compact and disciplined through sustained spells of Arsenal possession. Sunderland’s medical staff assessed Mukiele, and there were brief fears that Le Bris would be forced into a change before half-time. The Frenchman was able to continue, easing those concerns.
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Not long afterwards, Dan Ballard went down inside the Arsenal penalty area while attacking a corner. The centre-back immediately looked towards the referee and appealed for a spot-kick, but play was allowed to continue.
Bruno returned to more boos
Arsenal made two changes at half-time as Ben White and Myles Lewis-Skelly were replaced by Jurrien Timber and Bruno. Another chorus of boos greeted the former Newcastle midfielder as he emerged for the second half. That reception continued after the restart, with Bruno jeered each time he touched the ball. The Brazilian would soon deliver the most telling response possible.
Game turned dramatically inside 120 seconds
Sunderland were handed a huge opportunity to take the lead when Le Fée stepped up from the penalty spot. His effort was pushed onto the post by David Raya, with the Arsenal goalkeeper producing a superb save at a crucial stage.
Just two minutes later, Sunderland were punished at the opposite end. Bruno rifled an outstanding strike beyond the goalkeeper to put Arsenal ahead and complete a dramatic 120-second swing in the champions’ favour. After receiving abuse throughout the evening, Bruno celebrated by cupping his ears in front of the Sunderland supporters. It was a pointed response from the former Newcastle captain, who had gone from pantomime villain to Arsenal match-winner within minutes of entering the action.
Le Bris changed shape in search of equaliser
Le Bris responded by introducing Wilson Isidor for Nilson Angulo in the 70th minute. Sunderland moved to two recognised strikers as they searched for a deserved equaliser and began taking greater risks against the Arsenal defence.
Malick Fofana then replaced Thomas Meunier with 15 minutes remaining, ending the Belgian’s appearance on his 35th birthday. Sunderland created several late openings, but Raya repeatedly intervened to preserve Arsenal’s advantage.
The hosts could not find the goal their display merited and were punished at the death. Reinildo was dismissed before Bukayo Saka converted the resulting penalty, giving the final scoreline a more comfortable appearance than the contest deserved.