Following the 3 – 0 North London Derby defeat, the season is on the line for Arsenal at St. James’ Park.
The defeat to Tottenham wasn’t devastating for Arsenal, but only because they entered the game with a 4 point cushion.
Now, the gap is only one point and Arsenal must win their final two games to qualify for the Champions League.
The path is clear, but the team is decimated. Mikel Arteta doesn’t have a fit senior center half to play against Newcastle on Monday night.
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It’s going to be a struggle against a rejuvenated Newcastle. If the Gunners have anything going for them, it’s the fact their opponents have nothing left to play for.
In spite of this, it is Newcastle’s final home game of the season. Monday night, under the lights. They will want to give their fans a memorable send off. A win against a big name would be the perfect way to do that.
It will come down to how well the threadbare Arsenal team copes with the pressure. They didn’t cope with the pressure of the derby on Thursday. However, they prevailed in three high-pressure games against Chelsea, Manchester United and West Ham only two weeks ago.
Considering how crucial passing out from the back is to Mikel Arteta, it’s unclear how they will progress the ball. Arteta will have to name an all second-choice, possibly some third-choice players at the back.
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As well as that, Saka and Smith-Rowe are carrying injuries, so their attack won’t be as potent, either. What they do have going for them is the motivation of a potential coronation at home in their next game.
Win against Newcastle, and a win against Everton will seal Champions League qualification. With the bond that has developed between the team and the fans this season, that home game ought to see them through, and become a celebration.
They have to beat Newcastle first though. Somehow.
