Arsenal is gearing up for a highly anticipated clash against Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium, with manager Mikel Arteta making two significant changes to the starting lineup that faced FC Porto in the Champions League midweek clash.
The Gunners, who have been enjoying a successful run in the Premier League, aim to extend their impressive streak and close the gap with league leaders Liverpool.
Despite a setback in the midweek Champions League fixture against FC Porto, where Arsenal suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat, the team remains focused on their domestic campaign. Currently,
Arsenal sits just five points behind league leaders Liverpool, with a game in hand, presenting an opportunity to reduce the gap.
The Gunners have showcased formidable form, securing five wins in recent fixtures, including three occasions with five goals or more.
On the other side, Newcastle United has been experiencing a resurgence, going undefeated in four consecutive league matches.
With two wins and two draws in recent outings, the Magpies sit at eighth in the league table.
A victory against Arsenal could propel them higher, potentially surpassing Brighton in the standings.
As the anticipation builds for the weekend clash, both teams are carefully considering their line-ups for this pivotal encounter.
Arsenal’s Team Update
In terms of team news, Arsenal’s injury concerns are gradually easing.
Players like Fabio Vieira and Emile Smith Rowe, who were previously sidelined, have returned to fitness, albeit making appearances on the bench in the recent Porto clash.
However, uncertainties persist over the availability of key players for the upcoming match.
Defender Jurrien Timber remains sidelined due to an ACL injury suffered on the season’s opening weekend.
Progress has been reported in his rehabilitation, but doubts linger over the fitness of Oleksandr Zinchenko and Takehiro Tomiyasu, both dealing with knocks that might sideline them for the impending fixture.
Despite these concerns, there is optimism within the Arsenal camp.
Forward Gabriel Jesus is poised for a potential comeback, undergoing a late fitness assessment ahead of Newcastle’s visit.
Additionally, fans eagerly await the return of Thomas Partey, who has been sidelined due to a persistent muscle complaint.
Arteta expressed optimism about Partey’s recovery, stating, “Thomas is progressing really well.
I don’t want to say too much, but he’s looking very good and he’s on the field already.”
Predicted Arsenal Starting XI
Taking into account the team news and potential player availability, the predicted Arsenal starting XI for the clash against Newcastle United is as follows:
– Goalkeeper: David Raya
– Defenders: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jakub Kiwior
– Midfielders: Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, Martin Odegaard
– Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli
This anticipated lineup reflects Arteta’s strategic choices, considering both form and fitness of the players.
As the Gunners aim for another crucial victory, the focus is on maintaining their impressive domestic run and securing valuable points in the pursuit of the Premier League title.
