Arsenal’s long absence from the Champions League might extend into a sixth season after suffering a 2-0 defeat at Newcastle on Monday last night, handing their bitter North London rivals Tottenham a crucial two points lead that takes them to fourth place in the Premier League table.
With the Gunners failing to secure a point against Newcastle, Spurs would need just a draw against already relegated Norwich on Sunday to secure a top-four position, thanks to their superior goal difference. Arsenal’s defeat also guaranteed third-place Chelsea’s a place in the Champions League next season.
Ben White’s own goal and Bruno Guimarães’ late goal were the difference between the sides, but Newcastle’s performance was even more impressive as Eddie Howe’s men sent a message that they could be challenging for the title next season. Only Manchester City and Liverpool have won more Premier League points than the Magpies in 2022 since they began throwing in money from the Saudi sovereign wealth to fund big signings in the transfer market.
More big-money signings are expected to happen at St James’ Park in the coming months, but Arsenal’s budget in the transfer market could be negatively affected by once again failing to qualify for the Champions League.
Mikel Arteta’s men sat in the driver’s seat with three games left as they lead Spurs by four points. But Tottenham’s 3-0 derby win on Thursday increased the pressure on the young Gunners who could not respond. Arsenal would need a win against a desperate Everton side, and hope relegation-bound Norwich stuns Tottenham with a win.
