Frank Christian
Two football icons, Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, have put forward contrasting forecasts ahead of the important Arsenal vs. Newcastle showdown at the Emirates this Sunday— a match that could significantly influence the race for second place.
Currently, Arsenal holds the second position with 68 points, just a point clear of Newcastle in third place. A victory for Mikel Arteta’s team would secure their position as runners-up and ensure their spot in the Champions League.
However, any result other than a win could benefit Eddie Howe’s squad, which has managed to only lose one match in their last five league games.
Gary Neville, former captain of Manchester United and a veteran of eight Premier League titles, believes Arsenal will bounce back from their recent struggles. During his podcast It’s Called Soccer, he remarked,
‘I strongly believe that Arsenal will come away with a win. They’re going to solidify their second-place position,’
‘They’ve had ample time to regroup. That impactful second half at Anfield should provide a real boost,”
Connect with The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Arsenal faced a downturn in form this spring after suffering a 4-0 defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-finals in February, leading to a string of disappointing results with just a 38% win rate across all competitions since. Recently, however, they’ve shown signs of recovery, bouncing back to secure a 2-2 draw against Liverpool after a challenging first half.
“Arteta probably gave them some time off at the beginning of the week, allowing them to return with a refreshed mindset,” Neville added.
‘The main focus on Sunday is that a win would ensure Arsenal secures second place, which is significant.
‘This would allow them some breathing room in the final week of the season and essentially provide a mini vacation. There’s a lot riding on this game, and I predict Arsenal will win 2-1.’
Jamie Carragher anticipates an exciting match
On the other hand, Jamie Carragher — Liverpool’s second all-time top player and a Champions League victor — forecasts an exhilarating match in North London but believes it will end in a draw.
‘I’m calling it a 2-2 draw,’ Carragher stated.
‘I expect it to be a thrilling encounter, and Newcastle will be aggressive.
‘While Arsenal made a comeback against Liverpool and have a week to prepare, they are still facing some player absences and may feel somewhat disheartened from being out of the title race and Champions League contention.
‘Still, there’s a palpable excitement at Newcastle. With their trophy win, finishing second in the Premier League would be monumental for them.
‘For Arsenal, finishing second might feel less significant, thus I think Newcastle will challenge Arsenal fiercely, leading to a 2-2 result. I doubt Arsenal will come out on top.’
Latest updates on Newcastle United
- Liverpool adjusts transfer strategy while Newcastle addresses ‘outlandish’ Alexander Isak rumor
- Has Newcastle United ever secured the League Cup? A look back at the Magpies’ Carabao Cup history
- Current news on Newcastle United
