(DDM) – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces a critical test on Sunday when his side travel to Newcastle United in a clash that could reshape the Premier League title race.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the fixture comes just days after Liverpool’s perfect start to the campaign ended dramatically against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
Before that defeat, the reigning champions had secured five straight wins, looking poised to defend their crown.
However, Eddie Nketiah’s stoppage-time equaliser in the 97th minute halted Liverpool’s run, leaving the title race wide open. Arsenal are among the teams hoping to capitalize on the slip.
The Gunners themselves come into the game on the back of a 1-1 draw against Manchester City.
That result, secured through a late Gabriel Martinelli strike at the Emirates, offered relief after heavy criticism of Arteta’s tactical decisions.
Observers noted that Arteta’s team selection and approach in that encounter came under scrutiny, sparking debates about his readiness to challenge Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp for supremacy.
Now attention shifts to St James’ Park, a stadium where Arsenal have traditionally struggled.
Last season, Newcastle defeated the North London club in three of their four meetings, keeping clean sheets in each of those victories.
This term, Eddie Howe’s side has maintained a formidable defensive record, recording four clean sheets from their opening five fixtures.
Yet their attacking strength has diminished since the departure of star striker Alexander Isak, leaving goals harder to come by.
For Arsenal, victory at Newcastle is more than three points. It represents an opportunity to close the gap on Liverpool and Manchester City while restoring confidence in their ability to compete at the very top.
Much will depend on Arteta’s starting lineup. With captain Martin Ødegaard fit again after recovering from a shoulder injury, Arsenal fans expect him to lead the midfield with authority.
Ødegaard’s return could provide the creativity and leadership needed to unlock Newcastle’s stubborn backline.
Analysts say the outcome of this match will reveal whether Arsenal can maintain their title ambitions or risk falling further behind their rivals.
For Arteta personally, it is a chance to silence critics and reaffirm his tactical credentials.
As the Premier League season gathers pace, Sunday’s clash at St James’ Park promises to be more than just another fixture. It is a statement opportunity for Arsenal and a defining test for Arteta in the race to dethrone Liverpool.