Softfootball previews Friday’s highly anticipated Premier League clash between Newcastle United and Arsenal. This match is crucial for both teams as they seek points to progress in their respective Premier League campaigns.
Also Read: Paul Merson Warns Arsenal’s Defensive Approach Will Be Exposed Soon
Arsenal heads into a challenging Premier League clash against Newcastle United with hopes of securing a crucial away victory.
Match Preview
Newcastle United currently sit 12th in the table and have endured a challenging spell in recent weeks, having not won in their last five league games. Despite the dip in league form, their midweek victory may serve as a morale boost, especially as they strive to regain their strong home record.
Arsenal, on the other hand, are positioned in third place but are five points behind league leaders Manchester City. The Gunners’ recent defensive lapses, allowing multiple goals in four of their last five Premier League matches, could make this a particularly intense encounter as they work to regain defensive discipline.
Arsenal’s teenage star Ethan Nwaneri made headlines midweek with a stunning strike against Preston, further establishing himself as one of the Gunners’ rising talents.
His contributions came alongside goals from Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, marking an emphatic EFL Cup win for Arteta’s side. However, the Gunners’ last Premier League outing was less satisfying, as they let a 2-1 halftime lead slip away in a dramatic 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
With Manchester City opening up a five-point gap, Arsenal will need to sharpen their defensive performances. Their recent record of nine goals conceded in five league matches has left them vulnerable, leading to criticisms of Arteta’s tactical approach.
Meanwhile, Eddie Howe’s Newcastle has shown resilience despite setbacks, with their EFL Cup revenge over Chelsea underscoring their determination. The Magpies’ last league outing ended in a 2-1 loss to Chelsea, but a win against Arsenal could be the turning point they need to climb back into the top half of the table.
Team News
Gabriel Magalhaes may play against Newcastle after recovering from a knee concern sustained in the 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
The Brazilian was absent in the Carabao Cup clash against Preston, with Arteta hopeful he could return if he completes the final training session.
William Saliba remains unavailable due to suspension following his red card against Bournemouth, ruling him out for both this match and the upcoming fixture against Chelsea on November 10.
Ben White, who played the full match against Liverpool, was rested for the Preston game as he was “struggling” by the final whistle, according to Arteta. His availability will be a game-time decision.
In addition, Riccardo Calafiori is out with a knee injury, and club captain Martin Odegaard, while back in light training, is not expected to feature in this fixture.
Predicted Lineups
Newcastle United: Pope; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Barnes, Isak, Gordon
Arsenal: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Rice, Partey; Saka, Trossard, Martinelli; Havertz
Outlook
While Newcastle have struggled for Premier League victories recently, their home ground has been a fortress, rarely conceding back-to-back scoreless games. Arsenal, however, arrive with a relatively fresher squad after Arteta rested several starters in midweek, giving them an edge in terms of fitness.
The Gunners’ defensive vulnerabilities may leave them exposed to Newcastle’s potent attack, but Arsenal’s firepower could see them scrape a narrow victory in a competitive fixture.
