Arsenal’s title hopes suffered a setback as they fell to a 1-0 defeat at Newcastle United’s St. James’ Park on Saturday.
Mikel Arteta’s side struggled to assert themselves throughout the match, with Alexander Isak’s superb header from Anthony Gordon’s cross proving the difference.
The Arsenal boss’s frustration reached a boiling point in the second half when Sean Longstaff and Fabian Schar halted a promising counter-attack with a tactical foul. Arteta was seen arguing with Newcastle assistant coach Jason Tindall, with the pair needing to be separated by the fourth official.
Arteta was more subdued in his post-match comments compared to last season’s controversy, acknowledging Newcastle’s qualities. “We expect every opponent has their characteristics and they’re really good at what they do,” he said.
The defeat marks Arsenal’s third consecutive Premier League match without a win, leaving them seven points adrift of leaders Liverpool.
The Gunners face a challenging week ahead, traveling to Italy to face Inter in the Champions League before a crucial clash against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
With their title ambitions hanging in the balance, Arteta’s side must regroup and rediscover their winning form to stay in contention.
Newcastle, meanwhile, celebrate back-to-back 1-0 home victories over Arsenal, bolstering their European ambitions.
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