Sports
How Arsenal Could Line Up Against Newcastle United In A Must-Win Game For The Gunners
Arsenal is set to travel to Tyneside to take on Newcastle United in a crucial Premier League encounter on Sunday.
The Gunners have rediscovered their form after defeating London rivals Chelsea 3-1 in midweek, ending a four-game winless run.
However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is sweating over the fitness of Gabriel Magalhaes ahead of the match. The Brazilian defender was withdrawn from the match against Chelsea due to an ankle concern.
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Arteta is already without long-term knee victims Mohamed Elneny and Takehiro Tomiyasu, and William Saliba’s back problem is not expected to heal in time for Sunday’s game.
As a result, Arteta may have to work without his two first-choice centre-backs, but there is some hope that Gabriel may be passed fit for the match.
He could partner Jakub Kiwior in defence, with Rob Holding likely to remain on the bench. The rearguard could be completed by Ben White, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Aaron Ramsdale.
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In midfield, Granit Xhaka is almost certain to start, but the identity of his partner is up for debate. Thomas Partey was dropped for the match against Chelsea after a series of below-par performances, but he could be recalled for the match against Newcastle.
Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Gabriel Jesus are expected to continue up top, with Gabriel Martinelli set to replace Leandro Trossard.
Arsenal’s possible starting lineup: Ramsdale; White, Kiwior, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Xhaka, Partey; Saka, Odegaard, Martinelli; Jesus.