Botman surprise in 3-4-3 formation – Newcastle team expected to face Arsenal today

Newcastle United heads into their penultimate match of the 2024/25 campaign with everything still to play for, traveling to North London to face Arsenal in what promises to be a tense and high-stakes encounter.

With Champions League qualification hanging in the balance, Eddie Howe’s squad knows that a win will not only secure their place among Europe’s elite next season but could also see them leapfrog the Gunners into second place, a remarkable feat considering the ups and downs of the current campaign.

Despite favorable performances in recent head-to-head matches against Arsenal—three wins from three encounters this season—the magnitude of this fixture cannot be overstated.

Following victories for Aston Villa and Chelsea on Friday, Newcastle’s margin for error has narrowed. Yet, the mission remains clear: win today, and European football is assured.

Eddie Howe has some intriguing decisions to make with his starting eleven, particularly in light of late developments involving key players.

One of the more unexpected twists comes in the form of Sven Botman, who, despite nursing a knee issue that forced his exit during the 2-0 victory over Chelsea, has reportedly traveled with the squad and could be set to start.

Limited training during the week had cast doubt over his availability, but the Dutch center-back’s potential inclusion signals Howe’s intent to field his strongest possible lineup against a formidable Arsenal side.

Should Botman be deemed fit to play, Newcastle are expected to deploy a 3-4-3 formation designed to counter Arsenal’s attacking threat while maximizing width and mobility on the flanks.

Between the posts, Nick Pope remains a trusted presence, flanked in defense by Fabian Schär and Dan Burn, with Botman anchoring the trio.

Jacob Murphy is likely to retain his place at right wing-back, offering energy and directness, while Tino Livramento takes up the role on the left, providing balance and defensive coverage.

In midfield, the dynamic pairing of Bruno Guimarães and Sandro Tonali will be tasked with controlling tempo and breaking Arsenal’s rhythm.

Their blend of technical ability and grit will be crucial, especially in disrupting the Gunners’ central play and launching quick transitions.

Further forward, Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes will provide width and creativity on either side of Alexander Isak, whose pace and precision in front of goal remain vital to Newcastle’s offensive efforts.

For the hosts, uncertainty lingers around the availability of Declan Rice, who returned to training this week but remains a game-time decision.

Kai Havertz is also pushing for involvement after a long spell on the sidelines, and Mikel Arteta may need to make late adjustments depending on their fitness. Arsenal will be equally motivated, not only to end Newcastle’s winning streak against them but also to consolidate their position near the top of the table.

This match has all the ingredients of a classic Premier League showdown: high stakes, elite talent, and two tactically astute managers determined to outmaneuver each other.

The Carabao Cup semi-final earlier this season demonstrated Newcastle’s capacity to rise to big occasions, especially against top opposition.

If the team can channel that same fearless energy, there is every reason to believe they can return home with three points—and a golden ticket to the Champions League.

The stage is set at the Emirates Stadium. With pressure mounting from the chasing pack and history beckoning, Newcastle’s response today will speak volumes about their resilience, ambition, and progress under Howe’s leadership.