Rafa Benitez does not see Arsenal as a major challenge

Rafa Benitez is preparing to play toe-to-toe with Arsenal when the Gunners visit Newcastle United at St. James’ Park in two weeks.

After a win-less start to the season, Newcastle United are desperate for three points to get the ball rolling in a positive direction. The Magpies are currently in the relegation zone with one point and they will have to wait until the international break concludes to take the field once again.

Newcastle are still in their toughest stretch of the season as they prepare to host Arsenal at St. James’ Park on September 15th. Arsenal is a notable opponent comprised of top talent, but they have looked vulnerable under their new manager, Unai Emery. After four matches, Arsenal surprisingly find themselves sitting 9th in the Premier League table.

With that being said, the match between Newcastle and Arsenal will be entertaining as both sides will play to climb the table and to showcase their true colors. Rafa Benitez has deployed defensive formations against Chelsea and Manchester City in recent weeks, but the Spaniard said that approach will change against Arsenal.

When Benitez was asked by the media how he plans to prepare for Arsenal, the Champions League-winning manager had this to say:

"Obviously, Arsenal will still be tough because they are another top side, but maybe we will have a few more chances. That can be good, although sometimes it can also be bad because you have to take more risks, but we have to do it."

Good Decision

Newcastle played extremely well when they chose to attack Tottenham on opening day and the Magpies dominated the entire second half as they searched for an equalizer. Rafa Benitez is making a smart decision by trying to emulate those attacking tactics against Arsenal in two weeks, especially with Jonjo Shelvey and Matt Ritchie returning from injuries by then.

Arsenal are still an elite side, but it is clear that they are still trying to adapt to Emery’s style of play. Furthermore, Arsenal’s back-line has not been that solid as they have conceded eight goals in four matches. If Newcastle provide support for Salomon Rondon up top, then the Magpies should not be considered underdogs in this match despite their current table placement.

First Win?

Just because Benitez will play attacking football against Arsenal does not mean that Newcastle will be gifted with three points. The Magpies will have to give maximum effort in this affair to secure a positive result.

If Newcastle can earn three points against Arsenal it would mark their first victory of the season and could very well build new confidence among the team going forward. It will be interesting to see how many offensive risks Newcastle will take, but this is definitely the right time to make those moves.