Three changes energize Arsenal lineup
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has named a refreshed starting XI for the trip to Newcastle United, making three changes from the side that shared the spoils with Manchester City last weekend. Bukayo Saka returns to the fray in place of the injured Noni Madueke, while Cristhian Mosquera slots in for William Saliba, who drops to the bench. Ebere Eze is handed a start as Mikel Merino misses out, with the former Newcastle man replaced in the lineup. These are the only changes from the side that beat Port Vale in midweek, underscoring Arteta’s rotation policy while keeping most of the Cup-winning group intact.
Starting XI and formation notes
The XI named for the visit to St James’ Park reads: Raya in goal, a back four of Timber, Mosquera, Gabriel and Calafiori, a midfield engine room featuring Zubimendi, Rice and Eze, with Saka, Trossard and Gyokeres in advanced roles behind a central striker. This setup hints at a balanced approach: solid defensive cover, guaranteed ball progression from the midfield, and firepower in wide and central attacking areas. Saka’s inclusion promises width and directness on the right, while Mosquera’s partnership with Gabriel aims to shore up central areas in Saliba’s absence. Eze’s creative spark could prove pivotal in unlocking Newcastle’s defensive shape.
Bench and notable absences
On the bench, Arteta retains several key figures, including captain Martin Odegaard, who is back among the substitutes after recovering from a shoulder injury. The presence of Odegaard as an option from the bench indicates he could influence proceedings if required. Among those not starting are William Saliba and Mikel Merino, with Saliba dropping to the bench and Merino also out of the XI, replaced by Eze in the starting lineup. Backup goalkeeper Arrizabalaga is named among the substitutes, along with a mix of defensive cover, midfield depth and youthful prospects such as Lewis-Skelly. The squad balance suggests Arteta is prioritizing control in midfield and speed in attack while preserving energy for a demanding away test at a traditional fortress.
Looking ahead to St James’ Park
Arsenal’s tactical approach for this clash will be tested by Newcastle’s intensity and home atmosphere. With Saka back in action, the visitors will look to exploit width and pace, while Eze’s linking runs could thread passes between the lines. Mosquera’s role at center-back will be crucial in stabilizing transitions and winning key duels as the Magpies press. The rotation to bring in fresh legs after a busy schedule signals Arteta’s intent to maintain momentum across competitions, without sacrificing the energy needed to contend in the league. Fans will be keen to see how the trio of new starters settles into this high-octane fixture and whether the midfield trio can dominate possession and tempo against a high-pressing Newcastle side.
Key players to watch
Bukayo Saka returns with a point to prove after sitting out the previous fixture; his creativity and willingness to take on defenders could be decisive in breaking Newcastle’s presses. Ebere Eze, handed a full start, will be under the spotlight to showcase his creativity and decision-making in the final third. Cristhian Mosquera steps into a central defensive role, where his positioning and ball-playing ability will be under scrutiny against a fast Newcastle frontline. Together, they carry Arsenal’s ambition to secure three valuable points on the road.
