Eddie Howe’s defensive crisis has come at the worst possible time. Newcastle are one win away from clinching Champions League football. But as they prepare for Sunday’s showdown with Arsenal at the Emirates, the backline is barely holding together.
READ MORE: Arsenal vs Newcastle: Preview, prediction & team news
Injuries have stacked up. Now, key decisions must be made — especially at centre-back. Here is how Newcastle United are expected to line up.
Newcastle predicted lineup vs Arsenal - Premier League
Goalkeeper: Nick Pope
No debate here. Pope was excellent against Chelsea, commanding his box and organising the defence. He is crucial in games like this. Newcastle need his presence and shot-stopping more than ever.
Right centre-back: Emil Krafth
It was a risk playing him at Stamford Bridge. He delivered. Krafth may not be a natural centre-back, but his discipline and positioning impressed. With Botman likely sidelined and Lascelles still untested this season, Krafth should keep his place on the right of a back three.
Central centre-back: Fabian Schar
The leader in defence. Schar has stepped up massively in recent weeks, guiding a patched-up backline through tough fixtures. His distribution will be key against Arsenal’s press.
Left centre-back: Dan Burn
Back to his best. Burn was immense at Chelsea — dominant in the air, aggressive on the ground. He will relish the battle with Bukayo Saka or whoever drifts into that half-space. His left foot also brings balance to the back three.
Right wing-back: Jacob Murphy
Murphy was relentless last weekend. His energy down the right, especially with Trippier out, adds width and pace. He will need to track back constantly but can hurt Arsenal on the break. Deserves to start again.
Left wing-back: Tino Livramento
Lewis Hall’s absence hands Livramento another chance. He has grown into this hybrid wing-back role and defended well against Sterling. His pace will be vital in transitions. A huge task awaits, but he looks ready.
Central midfield: Sandro Tonali
His best performance in black and white came against Chelsea. Composed, aggressive, and capped with a stunning goal. Tonali now looks like the player Newcastle thought they signed. He will be crucial again.
Central midfield: Bruno Guimaraes
Bruno runs the show. He has been Newcastle’s midfield general all season and will relish this challenge against Arsenal’s technicians. His ability to escape pressure and launch attacks is unmatched in this squad.
Right forward: Anthony Gordon
Unstoppable when he gets going. Gordon tormented Chelsea down the left and is full of confidence. He gives Newcastle directness, tenacity, and goals. Arsenal’s defence will be wary of his runs in behind.
Left forward: Harvey Barnes
Barnes deserves his place after a tireless shift last time out. His off-ball movement creates space for others, and he links well with Gordon and Isak. Still searching for his best form, but his work rate cannot be ignored.
Centre forward: Alexander Isak
The headline act. Isak is the most in-form striker in the league and Newcastle’s biggest weapon. He will lead the line again, hoping to add to his stunning goal tally and further silence his critics. Arsenal know exactly how dangerous he is — stopping him is another matter entirely.
Newcastle predicted lineup vs Arsenal (3-4-3): Pope; Krafth, Schar, Burn; Murphy, Tonali, Guimaraes, Livramento; Barnes, Gordon; Isak.