Arsenal – Newcastle United: Arsenal Steamroll Mediocre Magpies (4-1)

Mikel Arteta’s side dominated the ball with a good possession structure in the first half, as well as suffocating Newcastle with their high pressing. This earned them a two-goal lead at the break, and they were able to extend this lead in the second half, this time defending slightly deeper against a Newcastle side who were lacklustre in most respects.

Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley.

Arsenal have been hitting their stride in recent weeks, with dominant Premier League wins over the likes of Crystal Palace, Liverpool, and West Ham. Their momentum did not carry over to the Champions League in midweek though, as they were beaten by FC Porto.

Newcastle meanwhile have struggled to replicate the success of last season, where they were able to secure a top four spot. This time they find themselves some way off the pace for Champions League football.

Mikel Arteta’s side lined up in a 4-3-3 shape here, with a back four of Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and Jakub Kiwior. Declan Rice, Jorginho and Martin Ødegaard were the midfield trio. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli started wide, with Kai Havertz up front.

Eddie Howe set his team up with a 4-3-3 formation, as Kieran Trippier, Fabian . . .