Arsenal will complete their fifth consecutive season without winning a major trophy, yet they have performed satisfactorily in the Premier League. They are gearing up to face Newcastle at home with the aim of securing their position in second place.
Although Arsenal finished as runners-up in the last two seasons and have been holding onto second place in the 2024-25 season since late December, they have been dropping points more frequently of late. Their total of 68 points falls significantly short of the 84 and 89 points they achieved in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons respectively.
Newcastle is on track for a successful season, having recently ended their trophy drought by winning the Carabao Cup final 2-1 against Liverpool. They have also been pushing for a top-five finish and are close to securing a spot in the Champions League following their 2-0 victory over Chelsea last weekend.
Team news
Arsenal will be without Mikel Merino due to suspension, and Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard (both with thigh injuries) are doubtful. Additionally, Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee injuries), Gabriel, and Kai Havertz (both with thigh injuries) are still unavailable. Jorginho and Oleksandr Zinchenko are potential replacements for Merino in the midfield.
Newcastle could see the return of Jamaal Lascelles to the squad after he was on the bench last weekend and might make his first appearance of the season. Joe Willock (thigh) and Sven Botman (knee) are uncertain to play but will be given a chance. Joelinton (knee), Lewis Hall (ankle), Matt Targett (thigh), and Kieran Trippier (calf) are confirmed absences.
The stats
In nine of the last 10 matches between the two teams, fewer than three goals were scored. Arsenal have had two 2-2 draws in their last three Premier League games. Also, in six of Arsenal's last eight matches, both teams have scored goals. Newcastle has defeated Arsenal three times this season, keeping clean sheets each time. Newcastle has won eight of their last ten matches.
Prediction
Arsenal need four more points to secure second place and could move closer to that target by drawing with Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium. Their next match is against Southampton, but they are currently focused on the challenging match against Newcastle. Newcastle has been a difficult opponent for Arsenal, winning 1-0 in the reverse fixture and both legs of the Carabao Cup semi-final.
Newcastle will look to secure their fourth consecutive win against Arsenal, but they may decide to play cautiously. Eddie Howe's priority is to clinch a top-five finish and secure a spot in the Champions League after missing out for one season. Newcastle would likely see a draw as a satisfactory outcome, especially against an Arsenal team missing Mikel Merino due to suspension.