Arsenal’s recent defeat to Newcastle United raises questions about whether the Gunners have lost some of the strength they displayed last season, leaving fans and analysts wondering if they may be regressing.
The lasting impact of this setback in the Northeast is still unclear, but it could hurt Mikel Arteta’s squad as they try to keep pace with league leaders Manchester City.
Before Saturday’s game, Newcastle had already demonstrated their form by eliminating Chelsea from the Carabao Cup, a warning Arsenal didn’t seem to heed.
Like Chelsea, Arsenal struggled to handle Newcastle’s high-energy, aggressive style, dominating possession but lacking the edge to truly control the game.
Arsenal received a boost before kickoff when Gabriel was cleared to partner William Saliba in central defense, but even with this duo, they struggled against Newcastle’s attackers—Anthony Gordon, Joelinton, and Alexander Isak—who pressed relentlessly and challenged Arsenal’s defense. The game’s only goal came in the 12th minute when Gordon delivered a precise cross, allowing an unmarked Isak to score with a powerful header.
What’s troubling for Arsenal’s coaching staff is the lack of a breakthrough despite ample time to equalize. After conceding early, they were expected to increase pressure, yet they couldn’t create enough decisive scoring chances.Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka both missed key opportunities, showing a lack of sharpness and finishing ability.
Arteta made tactical adjustments, including substituting Mikel Merino in the 61st minute after Newcastle’s midfield limited his impact. However, even with all five substitutes used, Arsenal couldn’t shift the game’s momentum.
This defeat now leaves Arsenal five points behind Manchester City, who lead the Premier League and faced Bournemouth later that day.
The loss also casts doubt over Arsenal’s preparation for their crucial Champions League away match against Inter Milan on Wednesday, followed by a game against Chelsea next weekend. With Martin Odegaard still out, his return is eagerly awaited to reignite Arsenal’s creativity.
Looking back at the season, there’s reason to wonder if Arsenal has declined since narrowly missing last year’s title to City.
They were expected to be strong contenders again, and early performances seemed promising. However, this lackluster display against Newcastle raises doubts about their ability to sustain form and challenge for the title, as concerns grow over their sharpness, urgency, and creativity in what looks to be another fiercely competitive race.
