2023 couldn't have got off to a much better start for Arsenal. They began the New Year with a seven point lead at the top of the Premier League and were able to sit back and enjoy as London rivals Chelsea and Tottenham both dropped crucial points. Now though comes a huge test.
Newcastle on Tuesday marks the first in a run of potentially season defining games for the Gunners who face Spurs away and Manchester United at home in their subsequent two league fixtures. Some may argue that the visit of the Magpies is the toughest of the lot. Eddie Howe's side may have dropped points against Leeds on New Year's Eve, but no one at Arsenal is underestimating the challenge they pose.
"A very good team," Arteta said of his opponents in his pre-match press conference. "Very well coached. I think what Eddie has done in that short period of time, you look at the numbers, it’s incredible. Big credit to him and his coaching staff. Then they have created a belief, a big momentum around the team that they play the same way against any opponent."
