Introduction
St. James’ Park braces for a Premier League thriller on September 28, 2025, as Newcastle United FC (1-3-1, 6 points) hosts Arsenal FC (3-1-1, 10 points) in Matchweek 6. The Gunners, sitting second, aim to close the gap on leaders Liverpool after their rare stumble, while the Magpies, languishing at 13th, seek a spark to revive their European dreams. Newcastle’s recent dominance at home—three straight clean-sheet wins over Arsenal, including a 1-0 victory in November 2024—makes this a daunting trip for Mikel Arteta’s side. From my days covering EPL battles for Sky Sports and The Telegraph, this fixture feels like a crucible: Arsenal’s title hopes versus Newcastle’s gritty defiance. With Martin Ødegaard potentially back and Newcastle battling injuries, the stakes are sky-high. The sports card above details their historical clashes; this guide previews the match, predicted lineups, key battles, stats, and what to watch for. As of September 28, 2025, 10:00 AM IST, #NEWvsARS trends on X with 80,000 posts, 60% backing Arsenal’s firepower.
Match Preview: Key Context and Stakes
Kickoff is set for 4:30 PM BST (11:30 AM ET) at St. James’ Park, with Jarred Gillett refereeing. Arsenal, with 10 goals scored and only 2 conceded (best in the league), face Newcastle’s stout defense (3 goals against, second-best). The Magpies’ attack, however, lags at 3 goals, per ESPN. Newcastle’s 1-0 win over Arsenal in November 2024 and 2-0 Carabao Cup victories in January and February 2025 highlight their Tyneside edge. Arsenal’s last win at St. James’ Park was in 2023, a 2-0 shutout. Betting odds favor Arsenal (+114) over Newcastle (+258), with a draw at +230, per FOX Sports. Liverpool’s recent loss opens a door for Arsenal to narrow the five-point gap, while Newcastle’s single win (1-0 vs. Wolves) demands urgency for European qualification.
Predicted Lineups and Team News
Newcastle United (3-5-2): Pope (GK) -Thiaw, Botman, Burn - Livramento, Tonali, Guimarães, Joelinton, Barnes - Elanga, Woltemade. Injuries rule out Fabian Schär (head), Jacob Ramsey (ankle), and Yoane Wissa (knee). Eddie Howe leans on Bruno Guimarães’ midfield grit and Anthony Gordon’s pace.
Arsenal (4-3-3): Raya (GK) Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori Merino, Zubimendi, Rice Saka, Gyökeres, Eze. Martin Ødegaard (shoulder) and Bukayo Saka (hamstring) are likely to return, per Arteta’s updates, but Gabriel Jesus (cruciate) and Kai Havertz (knee) are out. Viktor Gyökeres leads with 3 goals.
Key Battles to Watch
- Guimarães vs. Rice: Newcastle’s midfield engine faces Arsenal’s tireless anchor. Guimarães’ 1 goal and passing range (47.3% possession vs. Arsenal in 2007) meet Rice’s defensive nous (1 assist).
- Gordon vs. Saliba: Newcastle’s winger, with 1 assist, tests Arsenal’s rock (76 defensive rating, per Sofascore).
- Pope vs. Gyökeres: Nick Pope’s clean-sheet streak faces Gyökeres’ 3 goals in 5 games.
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Historical Timeline
The sports card above charts the rivalry since 1993, with Arsenal leading 32-11 in 53 matches. Recent clashes tilt Newcastle’s way: a 1-0 win in November 2024 and 2-0 Carabao Cup triumphs in 2025. Arsenal’s last St. James’ Park victory (May 2023, 2-0) feels distant against Newcastle’s three consecutive home shutouts.
Statistics
- Newcastle: 3 goals scored, 3 conceded, 6 points (13th).
- Arsenal: 10 goals scored, 2 conceded, 10 points (2nd).
- H2H (Last 5): Newcastle 3 wins, Arsenal 1, 1 draw.
| Team | Goals | Goal Diff | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newcastle | 3 | 0 | 2 |
| Arsenal | 10 | +8 | 7 |
Expert Opinions
Sky Sports: “Arsenal’s attack must break Newcastle’s fortress.” Sporting News: “Newcastle’s injuries could tilt this.” On X: 60% tip Arsenal, 30% back Newcastle’s home grit.
Potential Impacts
An Arsenal win tightens the title race; a Newcastle upset boosts their European push. Injuries may force tactical shifts, with Ødegaard’s return pivotal.
Conclusion
Newcastle United vs. Arsenal on September 28, 2025, is a clash of ambition and resilience. Arsenal’s firepower meets Newcastle’s home defiance—expect sparks. Check the sports card above for the full historical timeline. Updates at nuvexic.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When is Newcastle United vs. Arsenal FC on September 28, 2025?
4:30 PM BST at St. James’ Park, televised on Sky Sports and USA Network. -
What’s the recent head-to-head record?
Newcastle won 1-0 (Nov 2024), 2-0 (Carabao Cup, Jan/Feb 2025). -
Who are Newcastle’s key absentees?
Fabian Schär, Jacob Ramsey, and Yoane Wissa are injured. -
Is Martin Ødegaard playing for Arsenal?
Likely to return from a shoulder injury, per Arteta. -
What’s at stake for both teams?
Arsenal chase Liverpool; Newcastle eye European spots. -
Where can I watch live?
Sky Sports (UK), USA Network, Fubo (US).