Arsenal begins their FA Cup title defense with hopes of booking a spot in the fourth round when they welcome fellow Premier League side Newcastle United. The match schedules for Saturday at Emirates Stadium with kickoff at 8:30 pm.
The Gunners head into the match on the back of three straight Premier League wins. On the other hand, Newcastle head into the clash on the back of a six winless streak in all competitions with a poor run of form.
The January transfer window is open, and Mikel Arteta is keen on bolstering his squad with some new additions. However, it seems Artera working with Sporting Director Edu, is keen on clearing out the house.
It started with a loan move for left-back Kolisinac to Schalke 04. The side followed with loan moves for goalkeeper Matt Macey to Hibernian. There continues to be controversy over the fate of Mesut Ozil and Sokratis at the club.
All attention will turn to the Emirates this weekend with Arsenal kickstarting their title defense of the FA Cup. The Gunners have four straight wins against the Magpies in the league. It marks the first time both sides meet in the FA Cup since 2008.
Steve Brue might have the coronavirus outbreak at the camp as a significant cause for the league’s dismal performances. However, this will be overlooked as they head against a confident Gunners side.
Arsenal vs. Newcastle United Head to Head
Both sides have 26 games against each other, with Arsenal taking home 20 wins while Newcastle with two wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
West Brom 0-4 Arsenal
Brighton 0-1 Arsenal
Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea
Arsenal 1-4 Manchester City
Everton 2-1 Arsenal
Away
Newcastle 1-2 Leicester City
Newcastle 0-0 Liverpool
Manchester City 2-0 Newcastle
Brentford 1-0 Newcastle
Newcastle 1-1 Fulham
Arsenal Team News
Mikel Arteta receives a significant injury boost with the return of Thomas Partey to full ground training. Gabriel Magalhaes is back from recovering from coronavirus but might sit this one out. Many players are pushing for recalls, including Cedric Soares, Joe Willock, Alex Runanrson, Gabriel Martinelli, Maitland Niles, and Balogun.
Newcastle United Team News
Saint-Maximin and Ryan Fraser remain unavailable for selection this weekend. Jamaal Lascelles remains a significant doubt while dealing with the effects of the coronavirus. Isaac Hayden is available to face against his former club after serving a one-match ban.
Prediction and Odds
We expect many changes for both managers with a game next week for both teams hence a win for Arsenal.
Arsenal Win
Goals Over 2.5
Most Goals: 1H