Arsenal Faces Newcastle for Champions League Spot This Sunday

LONDON, England — Arsenal can secure their place in next season’s UEFA Champions League with a victory over Newcastle United on Sunday at the Emirates Stadium. Currently sitting second in the Premier League, Arsenal needs all three points to guarantee a top-five finish.

Despite their current position, the Gunners are wary of their recent struggles against Newcastle, having lost four of their last five encounters.

Manager Mikel Arteta faces injury concerns, with several key players doubtful for the match. Nevertheless, he hopes for a stronger first-half performance than the one displayed during last week’s 2-2 draw against Liverpool.

“We need to start strong and maintain the intensity,” Arteta said during a press conference. “Newcastle has proven to be a tough opponent.”

Goalkeeper David Raya, who has been resilient in recent outings, is aiming for a clean sheet against a formidable Newcastle attack led by Alexander Isak. Raya has yet to keep a clean sheet in ten appearances against the Magpies.

Defensively, Ben White is expected to start in right back, while William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior will anchor the center-back positions. Their primary job will be to neutralize Isak, who has already scored twice against Arsenal this season.

Myles Lewis-Skelly is set to continue at left back, tasked with navigating Newcastle’s attacking threats. In midfield, Arsenal will look to their captain Martin Ødegaard to orchestrate play, flanked by Thomas Partey and possibly Jorginho, who may be making his last appearance at the Emirates.

Bukayo Saka, who has been quiet since returning from injury, is keen to end his goal drought, while Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli add pace and creativity on the wings. Martinelli is questionable due to a knock received in the Liverpool match.

Newcastle arrives after a strong showing against Chelsea but will also be missing key players. Mikel Merino is suspended, and injuries have put several others in doubt for the trip to London.

“We need to grab this opportunity to solidify our position,” said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe. “We are aware of Arsenal’s quality and will need to adjust accordingly.”

The match is not only crucial for Arsenal as they aim for Champions League qualification but also for Newcastle, who are eager to leapfrog the Gunners in the standings. A win for Newcastle would allow them to crack the top two for the first time since 1997.