Arsenal’s bid for the Premier League title faced a significant setback as they fell 1-0 to Newcastle United on Saturday. Alexander Isak’s early header from Anthony Gordon’s cross gave the Magpies a narrow lead they would never relinquish, despite Arsenal dominating possession but managing just one shot on target throughout.
The loss leaves Arsenal’s title hopes in jeopardy, especially as league leaders Manchester City could widen the gap to eight points with a win over Bournemouth. Liverpool, just a point behind City, also have an opportunity to extend their points over Arsenal, adding to the Gunners’ woes.
Manager Mikel Arteta, whose team has now earned only a single point from the last three games, resisted halftime changes but introduced fresh legs in the form of Ethan Nwaneri and Oleksandr Zinchenko, and later, Gabriel Jesus.
However, they couldn’t break down Newcastle’s determined defence. Arsenal’s recent struggles follow a tough month that included a shock loss to Bournemouth and a 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
With upcoming matches against Inter Milan in the Champions League and Chelsea, Arsenal face a crucial stretch if they hope to remain in the title race. The win lifts Newcastle to eighth in the table, snapping their five-game winless streak.