As Arsenal prepares for the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle United, manager Mikel Arteta faces a challenge in selecting his squad due to several key injuries. The absence of Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, Ben White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu will test the depth of Arteta’s squad. Additionally, Ethan Nwaneri is expected to miss out after picking up a muscle injury in the recent Premier League draw against Brighton, while Kai Havertz’s participation remains uncertain due to illness.
Despite these setbacks, Arteta is expected to field a competitive lineup that balances defensive stability with offensive creativity. Key players such as Gabriel Martinelli and Jurrien Timber are likely to make their return to the starting eleven, adding strength and dynamism to the team.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup vs Newcastle – Carabao Cup Semi-Final First Leg
- Goalkeeper: David Raya
David Raya is set to start in goal for Arsenal. Having shown reliability since joining the club, Raya will be key in handling Newcastle’s attacking threats, especially as the Gunners look to maintain composure in this high-stakes fixture. - Right Back: Jurrien Timber
Jurrien Timber is back in contention after serving a suspension, which will boost Arsenal’s defensive options. His ability to play both as a full-back and a center-back gives Arteta tactical flexibility. Timber’s inclusion will also allow Thomas Partey to move back into a more familiar midfield role, strengthening the center of the park. - Centre-Backs: William Saliba & Gabriel Magalhães
The partnership between Saliba and Gabriel has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defensive solidity. Saliba’s ability to read the game and organize the backline, coupled with Gabriel’s aerial prowess and physicality, will be crucial against Newcastle’s offensive threat. - Left Back: Myles Lewis-Skelly
With Riccardo Calafiori out, Myles Lewis-Skelly is expected to step into the left-back position. The young full-back’s attacking drive and dynamism make him a strong addition to Arsenal’s flank, providing both defensive coverage and offensive support. - Midfield: Thomas Partey, Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard
- Thomas Partey will anchor the midfield, breaking up Newcastle’s attacks and facilitating transitions with his composed passing and defensive awareness.
- Declan Rice is expected to operate as the midfield anchor. His defensive capabilities and passing range will be vital in controlling the game and dictating play from the middle of the park.
- Martin Ødegaard is set to return after a brief rest. The Norwegian playmaker’s vision, creativity, and passing range will be crucial in unlocking Newcastle’s defense and generating attacking opportunities.
- Right Wing: Gabriel Martinelli
Gabriel Martinelli is poised to start on the right wing, taking the place of Ethan Nwaneri. Martinelli’s blistering pace, dribbling ability, and work rate will be pivotal in challenging Newcastle’s defenders and creating space in attack. - Striker: Gabriel Jesus
Gabriel Jesus will lead Arsenal’s line as the central striker. His intelligent movement, link-up play, and relentless pressing make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Jesus’s work ethic will be crucial in maintaining pressure on Newcastle’s defenders throughout the match. - Left Wing: Leandro Trossard
Leandro Trossard is likely to be deployed on the left wing. Trossard’s ability to cut inside and link up with teammates will be essential in breaking down Newcastle’s defensive structure. His versatility and composure on the ball will add creativity to Arsenal’s attack.
Arsenal’s Predicted Formation: 4-3-3
In this formation, Arteta will look to balance solid defensive protection with attacking flexibility. With the midfield trio of Rice, Partey, and Ødegaard, Arsenal will look to dominate possession and control the pace of the game. The attacking trio of Martinelli, Jesus, and Trossard will provide movement and creativity in the final third, looking to break down Newcastle’s defense.
Overall, despite the injury concerns, Arsenal’s lineup against Newcastle remains strong, with key players expected to step up and contribute in both defensive and offensive phases. This first-leg encounter will be crucial for Arsenal’s progress in the Carabao Cup, and Arteta will rely on the depth of his squad to secure a positive result.