Arsenal XI vs Newcastle: Team news, injuries, possible lineup

Arsenal head to St James’ Park on Saturday for a challenging Premier League showdown against Newcastle United. However, Mikel Arteta faces a selection headache, with several key players struggling with injuries ahead of the match. Here’s a closer look at Arsenal’s injury concerns, likely lineup, and key players to watch as they aim to secure crucial points away from home in this Newcastle vs Arsenal game.

Arsenal injury news vs Newcastle

Gabriel Magalhaes, Arsenal's Brazilian defender, is a significant doubt for Saturday. Gabriel sustained a knee injury in last weekend’s 2-2 draw against Liverpool and missed Wednesday’s 3-0 EFL Cup victory over Preston North End. Arteta has expressed hope that the injury isn't severe, but Gabriel’s availability remains uncertain for this Newcastle vs Arsenal Premier League game.

The Gunners are also set to be without a few other vital players:

• Martin Odegaard (ankle)

• Riccardo Calafiori (knee)

• Kieran Tierney (hamstring)

• Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee)

Arsenal team news ahead of Newcastle clash

Despite Gabriel’s potential absence, Arsenal has received some positive news in defense. William Saliba is now cleared to play in the Premier League following his recent suspension, and Jurrien Timber showed promising form on Wednesday, completing the first half against Preston after dealing with cramp in the Liverpool game. Ben White should also be available after sitting out the midweek match as a precaution.

With Gabriel likely sidelined, Jakub Kiwior may be the preferred choice to fill the left-footed role in defense. He’s expected to partner with Saliba, Timber, and White, forming a backline capable of standing up to Newcastle’s potent attacking threats.

Arteta has multiple choices in midfield, especially with Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, and Leandro Trossard ready to return to the starting XI. Mikel Merino managed 45 minutes against Preston, but he might make way for Rice and Partey in this Newcastle vs Arsenal, who bring both defensive solidity and attacking flexibility.

In the attacking third, Trossard is likely to join Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. The dynamic trio should provide pace and creativity, essential for breaking down Newcastle’s defence. Kai Havertz is expected to lead the line, prepared for a tough aerial contest against Newcastle’s Dan Burn.

Predicted Arsenal XI vs Newcastle

• Formation: 4-2-3-1

• Goalkeeper: David Raya

• Defence: Ben White, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Jurrien Timber

• Midfield: Declan Rice, Thomas Partey

• Attack: Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli

• Striker: Kai Havertz

Arsenal vs Newcastle Premier League match information

• Date: Saturday, November 2, 2024

• Time: 12:30 PM GMT

• Venue: St James’ Park

With injuries impacting Arsenal’s typical lineup, Arteta will rely on his depth and tactical flexibility to keep the momentum going in the Premier League. This Newcastle vs Arsenal fixture promises to be a thrilling clash as both Arsenal and Newcastle battle for a three points.

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