Arsenal likely observed Newcastle United’s triumph over Liverpool on Sunday with considerable satisfaction.
The Gunners’ title competitors have experienced a challenging week. Arne Slot’s squad faced defeat in a penalty shootout against Paris Saint-Germain and subsequently saw their aspirations for a domestic double come to an end at Wembley Stadium during the Carabao Cup final.
While Liverpool appears poised to surpass Arsenal in the race for the Premier League title this season, any lingering hope for a dramatic downturn may have been rekindled upon witnessing Slot’s fatigued team succumb to yet another loss. Additionally, the performance of Arsenal-linked Alexander Isak would have been a positive takeaway.
The Swedish forward scored Newcastle’s second goal, establishing a 2-0 advantage for Eddie Howe’s side. Isak has demonstrated his ability to excel in crucial moments, which is precisely what Mikel Arteta’s squad requires.
However, an alternative scenario may have emerged on Sunday. Could the elation of Newcastle securing their first domestic trophy in 70 years ignite a desire for further success at St James’ Park?
Few fans in football would have been as ecstatic at Wembley after clinching the League Cup, and the Newcastle players were acutely aware of this, as evidenced by the celebrations at full-time. Howe’s team likely felt a sense of relief at finally breaking their long-standing trophy drought.
The pressing question now is what this Newcastle team can achieve following the end of their trophyless streak. While Isak may have had a greater chance of securing larger trophies at Arsenal or other clubs, that prospect may no longer seem as certain.
Newcastle has now claimed a trophy more recently than the Gunners and will be optimistic about competing for additional silverware in the upcoming season. Consequently, the Magpies have transformed into a significantly more appealing option than they were prior to Sunday’s final.
Although PSR constraints will always pose a challenge, there is no reason to believe that Newcastle cannot contend for the league title next season if they execute their summer recruitment effectively. While Isak may be seeking a new challenge, the prospect of building on their League Cup victory could entice him to remain with the Magpies for a longer period.
This speculation follows Isak’s recent comments regarding his future in the lead-up to Sunday’s final. Indicating that he believes he can achieve his goals at St James’ Park, the forward shared with our affiliated publication, Chronicle Live: “That’s why I came here. As I have mentioned, I am not currently focused on the summer.”
“I have repeatedly stated that I do not dwell on my future. I have expressed my happiness here, and we are in contention for titles, which is what every football player desires. We have reached one final and are now preparing for another.”
Leave a Reply