Arsenal: Four Key Matches That Defined Their Season
1. February 16, 2020, Arsenal dismantles Newcastle
Mikel Arteta enjoyed a honeymoon period in his first couple of months in charge, and a small new manager bump bolstered him.
His squad lost his second match at home to Chelsea; however, they went unbeaten in their next five matches. The fact that it was a win against Manchester United; and four draws mattered little to supporters.
Arsenal sat in 10th position in the Premier League table ten points from the last Champions League slot coming into the match at home against the Magpies.
The Gunners dominated possession and the tempo from the opening whistle. They were able to create several scoring opportunities in the first half. Newcastle’s defense initially held firm, allowing the home side to low percentage shots.
The Magpies’ defense fell like an old beach house in a windstorm in the second half as Arsenal continued to batter them.
Aubameyang opened the scoring for Arteta’s club in the 53rd minute, followed by a goal two minutes later by the much-maligned Nicolas Pepe.
Mesut Ozil, who had not scored in 25 games, got in on the scoring parade by tapping in a goal in the 89th minute, making the score 3-0.
Alexandre Lacazette finished the scoring in stoppage time.
Arsenal 4, Newcastle United 0.
The victory was the Gunner’s best match of the season. Their xG of 3.02 and PPDA of 5.66 was their best in Premier League play.
They played with increased urgency and passion on the pitch while in possession, in transition, and on defense.
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The Gunners may miss out on Champions League football next season, but as Mikel Arteta continues to become more grounded in his new job, there is hope for the future.