Arsenal’s Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus has been in sensational form lately, playing a pivotal role in the team’s attacking lineup. However, the Gunners’ chances of catching Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table are becoming increasingly slim.
Liverpool’s Draw Leaves Arsenal a Glimmer of Hope
On Monday, January 6 (Singapore time), Liverpool was held to a draw by long-time rivals Manchester United. This result left second-placed Arsenal with a faint chance of narrowing the gap. However, realistically speaking, the Gunners’ hopes of overtaking the Reds in the league appear remote.
With half the season played, Liverpool holds a six-point advantage over Arsenal with a game in hand. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is likely well aware that winning the Premier League title will require not only his team’s best efforts but also a significant slip-up from Liverpool. As such, the League Cup has emerged as a more realistic target for silverware, with Arsenal now just three matches away from lifting the trophy.
League Cup Semifinal: Arsenal vs Newcastle United
The Gunners will face Newcastle United in the first leg of the League Cup semifinals at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, January 8. Although Arsenal has struggled in recent years at Newcastle’s St. James’ Park—including a 1-0 loss earlier this season—they hold a dominant record against Newcastle at home. The Magpies have managed just one win at the Emirates since 2010.
Team News and Injury Updates
Arsenal has recently dealt with a virus outbreak that sidelined several key players, including Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard. Havertz has missed two matches, while Ødegaard and Martinelli were only fit enough for the bench in the match against Brighton.
For the upcoming semifinal, Havertz is expected to return to the squad, and Ødegaard and Martinelli should reclaim their starting positions. However, 17-year-old prospect Ethan Nwaneri, who shone in previous matches, will miss the game due to a muscle injury. Martinelli is likely to take back his spot on the right wing, while Gabriel Jesus and Trossard will form the rest of the attacking trio.
Jesus in Red-Hot Form
Gabriel Jesus will undoubtedly be a focal point for Newcastle’s defense. After a prolonged period of inconsistency, the Brazilian forward has rediscovered his scoring touch. In his last five matches, he has netted six goals, including a stunning hat-trick against Crystal Palace in the previous League Cup round, which secured Arsenal’s spot in the semifinals.
Newcastle’s Recent Resurgence
The Magpies have found their form heading into the busy festive period. Their impressive run includes a 3-1 League Cup victory over Brentford and five consecutive Premier League wins, culminating in a 2-1 away triumph against Tottenham in their last outing.
Conclusion
As Arsenal’s hopes of a Premier League title grow dim, their focus has shifted to securing the League Cup. With Gabriel Jesus in blistering form and key players returning from illness, the Gunners are poised to give their all against a resurgent Newcastle United. The semifinal promises to be a thrilling contest, with Arsenal aiming to edge closer to their first trophy under Mikel Arteta.
