Man City can cut Arsenal lead to two points with win over Newcastle
Momentum shifts in title race
Manchester City have the chance to move within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal when they host Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium following the Gunners’ draw with Wolves.
Pep Guardiola’s side were handed a significant lifeline in the title battle after Mikel Arteta’s men surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with the division’s bottom club.
That result at Molineux means the destiny of the trophy is back in City’s hands; if they win their remaining 12 fixtures, they will be crowned champions once again.
The defending champions are aiming to replicate their relentless form of 2023, where an 11-game winning streak saw them overhaul an eight-point deficit.
However, the treble winners have struggled for consistency recently, managing just three victories in their last eight league outings.
Gordon leads Magpies threat
Newcastle arrive in Manchester in high spirits following a emphatic 6-1 victory over Qarabag in the Champions League play-offs.
Anthony Gordon produced a stunning individual display in Azerbaijan, scoring four first-half goals to virtually secure his side’s place in the last 16.
Eddie Howe’s men will now look to translate that European form into domestic points as they aim to bridge the nine-point gap to the top four.
Despite their confidence, the Tyneside club face a daunting task at a venue where they have lost on their last 16 consecutive visits.
Team news and head-to-head
This fixture marks the fourth meeting between the two clubs this season, with City holding the upper hand in cup competitions.
The hosts progressed past the Magpies in the League Cup semi-finals, securing a 5-1 aggregate victory thanks to goals from Omar Marmoush and Tijjani Reijnders.
However, Newcastle claimed the spoils in the reverse league fixture in November, with Harvey Barnes striking twice to seal a win at St James’ Park.
The home side remain unbeaten in their last 21 encounters with Newcastle at the Etihad Stadium.