Newcastle United are hoping to pip Arsenal to second in the Premier League.
While Eddie Howe’s primary aim is to qualify for the Champions League, he will have one eye on finishing second in the Premier League table.
It is in Newcastle United’s hands. They know they will end the campaign in second if they win their final two games against Arsenal and Everton.
The Gunners have problems ahead of Sunday’s game too, with Mikel Merino suspended and Declan Rice possibly injured.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
What Paul Merson expects to happen during Arsenal vs Newcastle United
Despite those concerns, former Arsenal attacker Paul Merson is adamant that Mikel Arteta’s side will beat Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium.
Merson has been speaking about Arsenal’s final two games of the season on The Football Show on Sky Sports News (10:34am, 14/05/25).
“They’ve got to finish second,” he said.
“I do expect them to probably win their next two games.
“Don’t get me wrong, Newcastle will be hard. But I expect them to win it.”
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Newcastle United can continue perfect record against Arsenal
While Merson is certain that Arsenal will be victorious on Sunday, Newcastle United will head to the Emirates with confidence.
Newcastle’s win over Chelsea has lifted the pressure on Tyneside. The Magpies are suddenly in an extremely strong position to qualify for the Champions League, with one more win enough to pretty much guarantee a top five finish.
Howe will want to get that victory as soon as possible and will travel to North London with no fear.
That is because his side have beaten Arsenal three times already this season without conceding a single goal.
The Magpies have been dominant against the Gunners, particularly in the recent Carabao Cup semi-final. Howe’s side won 2-0 home and away, picking up their first win at the Emirates since November 2010.
Those victories sent the Toon to Wembley, where Newcastle won the Carabao Cup to end their trophy drought.
Alexander Isak scored that day, while he has also had a lot of joy against Arsenal this season.
Arsenal are desperate to sign Isak, but they need to be more worried about stopping him. He has scored twice past them this season, and will hope to add to his tally on Sunday.