Arsenal vs Newcastle United: Arsenal host Newcastle United in their final home game of the season in the Premier League, with pressure on them to hold on to second place. With just six points at stake, the Gunners are five clear of Aston Villa and can afford no slip-ups. The 2-2 draw at Anfield, after trailing by two goals, showed character but exposed the doubts of a team that has won just three of its last ten games. That inconsistency has coincided with their attempt to prioritise the Champions League, where the physical and mental toll has taken its toll.
The list of absentees is worrying. Gabriel, Tomiyasu, Merino and Jesus are ruled out. Timber, Rice, Havertz and Trossard remain in doubt. Arteta has had to constantly adjust his eleven, which has affected continuity. Despite the difficulties, Arsenal remain in with a chance of closing their league campaign well at home, where the support at the Emirates can make a difference. If they do not impose their rhythm from the start, they risk extending their shaky run at a key moment.
4-3-3 Arsenal Predicted Starting Lineup Against Newcastle United:
Defense:
Raya will remain in goal, no question. White will take his usual place at right-back, with Saliba as the team’s strongest centre-back. Gabriel’s absence forces Kiwior to continue as the central defender in the back four. Zinchenko, despite his recent fitness problems, has a chance to start on the left. The Ukrainian is a good outlet for the ball, although he leaves gaps at the back. The defence needs to stay focused, especially against a Newcastle side that exploits space well. The solidity will depend on the connection between centre-backs and the cover Zinchenko receives.
Midfield:
Partey will appear to be the only pivot available and has the responsibility of providing balance. His ability to cut off transitions will be key, especially if the team moves forward. Odegaard will keep his place as the inside right, with his creativity as a starting point for attacks. On the other side, Lewis-Skelly could receive minutes in the midfield. The youngster brings energy and mobility. The doubt over Rice and Havertz opens the door to an unusual midfield. The lack of familiarity between the three could lead to disconnections, but it also introduces a new set of tactics that might be unpredictable for the opposition.
Attack:
With Jesus injured and Trossard in doubt, the attacking front will be a thing to ponder for Arteta. If the Belgian plays, he will most likely do so as a false nine. Saka will continue to start on the right, with his usual one-on-one threat. Martinelli will return to the eleven on the left, looking to exploit his pace against his opposing full-back. Without a natural centre-forward, the team will need quick partnerships and constant positional interchanges. If Trossard does not start, perhaps Odegaard will move forward as a false nine, which would completely change the attacking structure and require even more mobility.
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