Newcastle United vs Arsenal is being viewed by many as a Premier League shoot-out for second place.
Newcastle United travel to Arsenal tomorrow knowing victory can clinch a spot in the Champions League next season.
Recent history favours them, with the Magpies already beating Mikel Arteta’s men three times this season. However, just one Premier League win ever at the Emirates sends a telling reminder that the Gunners will be no easy feat.
Both clubs are vying for second spot and Chelsea and Aston Villa piled pressure on Newcastle with victories on Friday. Eddie Howe has been steadfast in focusing on Newcastle and avoiding outside distractions.
The prize is simple: win in North London and begin preparations for another Champions League adventure. NewcastleWorld have profiled what the pundits have predicted - included a shocking observation from former Gunners star Paul Merson.
Paul Merson
“Newcastle will be in trouble here,” he wrote in his SportsKeeda column. “I don’t see anything but an Arsenal win. Looking back at last week, Arsenal were 2-0 down and still got a result against Liverpool at Anfield.
“Considering the disappointment in the Champions League, Arsenal will want to ensure they don’t give up on second place in the table. If Newcastle lose this game, that puts them in a tricky position.
“Out of all the teams fighting to secure Champions League football, Newcastle have the toughest match on the final day of the season in my opinion.
“Chelsea vs Forest is a virtual shoot-out, Aston Villa will face Manchester United after the Champions League final and Manchester City Fulham. Newcastle host Everton and that will be a trick game.
“The only Newcastle United have is their goal difference compared to the others and they will be hoping not to hurt that too much against Arsenal.”
Prediction: Arsenal 3-1 Newcastle United
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Chris Sutton
“This is a big game with second place up for grabs, and it is a bit of a grudge match too,” he told BBC Sport. “Newcastle have beaten Arsenal three times already this season and their meetings have been quite spiky since the Magpies grabbed a controversial win over Mikel Arteta's side in 2023.
“Arsenal will be absolutely desperate to put one over them this time, but I can see this turning into a real battle and I would not be surprised if it ends up in a draw. That is a better result for the Gunners, because a point would all but guarantee them a Champions League place - their goal difference is much better than the other teams in that race - even if their fans will want more."
Prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Newcastle United
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