Saliba: We’re all a bit sad after Newcastle defeat | OneFootball

Arsenal’s title hopes took another hit as they suffered a 1-0 defeat away to Newcastle United on Saturday.

The loss, sealed by an early Alexander Isak header from an Anthony Gordon cross, saw the Gunners struggle for creativity, particularly in the absence of their captain Martin Odegaard.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 02: Alexander Isak of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Arsenal FC at St James’ Park on November 02, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

The Gunners controlled 64% of possession but managed just one shot on target—highlighting how much they missed Odegaard, sidelined since September with ankle ligament damage.

Despite David Raya’s efforts to keep Arsenal in the match, the lack of an attacking spark was evident. Although Declan Rice missed a late chance to equalise, Nick Pope remained largely untroubled.

William Saliba summed up the mood afterwards, admitting, “We are all a bit sad because we wanted to win today. Unfortunately, we didn’t and we didn’t play the game we wanted to play. We deserved to lose today, I think.”

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 02: William Saliba of Arsenal looks dejected after Alexander Isak of Newcastle United (not pictured) scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Arsenal FC at St James’ Park on November 02, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

He added, “I think we didn’t play how we wanted to play and they were good as well. It’s OK, we are focused on the next week and it is not finished.”

Odegaard has been the heartbeat of Arsenal’s midfield, and his absence has coincided with a significant decline in their attacking threat. The Norwegian playmaker still leads the Premier League in chances created from open play, despite missing several matches, underlining his irreplaceable influence.

The defeat to Newcastle emphasised the thin line Arsenal are treading without their captain. His vision, leadership, and ability to dictate play are critical assets that Arsenal cannot afford to miss if they are to maintain any serious aspirations for the Premier League title.