Arsenal vs Newcastle: Confirmed Lineup, Team News & Premier League Title Race Preview

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka will be included in the matchday squad for the Premier League clash against Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, April 25, 2026, despite ongoing recovery from an Achilles injury.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, April 24, 2026, Arteta stated that Saka “is probably going to be in the squad,” offering a significant boost to the Gunners’ attacking options ahead of a crucial top-of-the-table encounter.

The England international has not featured since the Carabao Cup final but has intensified his rehabilitation this week. Arteta clarified, however, that a return to the starting XI is unlikely, saying Saka “is unlikely he will come straight back into the starting lineup” despite being available for selection.

Riccardo Calafiori is also expected to return to the squad after missing the last three games, with Arteta noting he “is probably in the squad as well.” In contrast, Jurrien Timber remains sidelined with a groin injury and will not be involved, as Arteta confirmed: “Jurrien not in the squad.”

Defender William Saliba and midfielder Martin Odegaard are both available after returning from injury, with Odegaard having featured in the midweek defeat to Manchester City and expected to retain his role in the No. 10 position.

Arteta indicated he may stick with the attacking formation used against Manchester City, which saw Kai Havertz lead the line and Eberechi Eze operate from the left wing, despite the team’s failure to convert chances in that 2-1 loss.

The predicted Arsenal XI, based on Arteta’s comments and recent team selections, is expected to feature: David Raya in goal; William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jakub Kiwior and Kieran Tierney in defence; Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice in midfield; Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli in attack.

Arsenal enter the match needing only a point to reclaim the top spot in the Premier League table, as Manchester City are occupied with FA Cup commitments this weekend. A win would put them three points clear at the summit.

The Gunners arrive at the fixture having lost four consecutive domestic games for the first time since the 2017-18 season, including their recent defeat to Manchester City, raising concerns about their form heading into the run-in.

Newcastle United, meanwhile, will be without suspended midfielder Joelinton and will continue to assess the availability of several players managing minor injuries, though no further updates were provided in Arteta’s press conference.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 5:30pm BST on Saturday, April 25, 2026, and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.