Arsenal vs Newcastle: Premier League Preview

Newcastle come into the fixture in a buoyant mood after dispatching Chelsea 2-0 at St James’ Park last weekend. That win not only tightened their grip on third place but also put pressure on Arsenal, who now sit just ahead of them. A win for the Magpies on Sunday could see them leapfrog the Gunners into second, provided other results go their way.

For Arsenal, this is about restoring momentum after a rocky few weeks. The Gunners have stumbled somewhat, drawing 2-2 with Liverpool last weekend and managing just one win in their last six Premier League outings. Yet they remain unbeaten at home this season — a stat they’ll hope to protect against a confident Newcastle side.

Mikel Arteta’s squad has been hit hard by injuries in recent weeks. Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Gabriel Magalhães are all ruled out, while there are lingering doubts over the fitness of key figures such as Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, and Kai Havertz. Trossard was forced off with a hamstring issue against Liverpool, though both he and Rice were seen in light training midweek — potentially boosting Arsenal’s midfield options.

Newcastle aren’t much better off. Lewis Hall, Matt Targett, and Joelinton are unavailable, while doubts persist over the fitness of Sven Botman, who picked up a knock in the win over Chelsea. Joe Willock and Kieran Trippier remain sidelined, leaving Eddie Howe with decisions to make in defense and midfield.

This is Arsenal’s final home game of the season and their last real chance to make a statement. After crashing out of the Champions League semi-finals to PSG and stuttering in domestic form, the Gunners are in desperate need of a lift. Their fans will expect a response, and with a potential return to Europe's elite on the line, Arteta’s side have plenty of motivation.

Despite the recent slump, Arsenal have enjoyed a solid season, staying in the top four mix and showing flashes of the free-flowing football that has become their hallmark under Arteta. With top talents like Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and William Saliba still in the fold, Arsenal remain a threat to any side.

Newcastle’s resurgence under Eddie Howe has been nothing short of remarkable. With their EFL Cup triumph in March breaking a long trophy drought, the Magpies are enjoying a season to remember. Their attack, led by the likes of Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon, has been potent, and their midfield, when fully fit, is one of the most dynamic in the league.

A second-place finish would be Newcastle’s highest league placement in the Premier League era, and a win at the Emirates would be a significant step toward that goal. Howe’s team is aggressive, fast, and fearless; traits that have made them a difficult opponent for even the league’s best.

With both sides carrying injuries and fatigue into this game, it may not be the most polished contest, but it will be fiercely competitive. Arsenal will aim to control possession and push forward early, while Newcastle are likely to press high and look to strike on the counter.

Expect a physical, open match with plenty of chances at both ends. Given Arsenal’s home form and Newcastle’s momentum, a draw could be on the cards, but don’t rule out late drama with so much on the line.

This isn't just about three points. For Arsenal, it’s about salvaging a strong finish to an up-and-down season. For Newcastle, it’s about continuing their incredible rise and securing Champions League football for next year. Whatever happens, Sunday’s clash at the Emirates promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the weekend.