Arsenal’s victory over Preston North End in the middle of the week put them back on track. However, Mikel Arteta’s team is now planning to exact revenge for their contentious loss on Tyneside last season, so the focus swiftly shifts to the weekend.
In the previous season, Newcastle defeated Arsenal for the first time, and they did so because of a goal that Mikel Arteta was upset over after the game. The ball appeared to go out of play during the build-up, but Joelinton appeared to foul Gabriel Magalhaes in the box, but it was impossible to tell from any camera angle.
Last weekend, Anthony Taylor penalized Arsenal in the lead-up to a late goal from Gabriel Jesus that would have won the match against Liverpool. After what appeared to be a little collision with Dominik Szoboszlai, Jakub Kiwior was disciplined.
Gabriel Magalhaes had a knee injury during the match, so it’s unclear if Arteta will be able to use the Brazilian for the trip. Football.london examines the modifications that can be made to the game in light of that and other squad concerns.
Naturally, David Raya will return to the starting lineup for the match against Newcastle following Tommy Setford’s midweek debut. Raya will be hoping to keep a clean sheet in the league for the first time since the 1-0 victory over Tottenham on September 15. Since then, the Gunners’ defensive record has suffered, as they have given up nine goals in five games.
William Saliba joins Ben White in the middle of defense by switching to Gabriel’s left center-half position in the back line. Thomas Partey also joins the lineup because of his outstanding performance at right-back against Liverpool.
However, the defensive unit’s most outstanding player was probably Jurrien Timber, who helped hold Mohamed Salah at bay. His frailties only became apparent when he and Gabriel departed the field.
Declan Rice, who plays in the deepest midfield position, has returned to his best self. Even though Partey has been excellent, Rice should win more Man of the Match accolades than he did the previous season because he was positioned at number six.
After his headed finish the previous weekend, Mikel Merino, who plays as the left No. 8, hopes to score more goals. Leandro Trossard, like Rice, rested thoroughly at Preston and will join the team regardless of Ethan Nwaneri’s performance, but the youth is undoubtedly vying for a spot.
Bukayo Saka gave Arsenal’s performance against Liverpool vitality and gave supporters something they had sorely missed. Since Kai Havertz returned to scoring ways in the cup and is hoping to return to the stadium where his Arsenal career arguably began while just avoiding a red card, he will partner Gabriel Martinelli, who is also looking extremely sharp again.
Changes Arsenal XI vs Newcastle United: Raya; Partey, White, Saliba, Timber; Rice, Merino, Trossard; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli.
