Newcastle United 0-2 Arsenal: 5 talking points as Gunners return to winning ways | Premier League 2020-21

Arsenal overcame Newcastle United in the Premier League, thanks to goals from Mohamed Elneny and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, to return to winning ways. The Magpies were unbeaten in their last four league games, while Arsenal were coming off a loss to Everton last weekend.

Mikel Arteta made nine changes to his starting XI, who lost at Villarreal in the Europa League semi-final first leg. The tactic paid off, as Arsenal secured all three points at Newcastle.

Despite welcoming Callum Wilson back into their starting XI, Steve Bruce's side looked toothless in attack and attempted only five shots all game. That helped Arsenal hang on for a much-needed win ahead of their all-important Europa League semi-final against Villareal in midweek.

On that note, let's take a look at five talking points from the game.

#1 Gabriel Martinelli proves his worth for Arsenal

Gabriel Martinelli produced an assist for Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Making the most of a rare start, Gabriel Martinelli made a huge impact for Arsenal in their victory over Newcastle United. The 19-year-old created all sorts of trouble for Jacob Murphy and contributed significantly to the Gunners' combined 13 shots by the end of the first half.

The left-winger registered his first Premier League assist of the season after successfully finding Aubameyang at the far post. However, following a heavy challenge by Fabian Schar in injury time, the Brazilian youngster looked to be in some discomfort.

That could be a worry for Arteta, as Arsenal need to beat Villarreal by two clear goals at home to advance to the Europa League final.

---

#2 Newcastle United look good to avoid relegation despite defeat

Newcastle United only had one shot on target.

Despite their defeat at home to Arsenal, Newcastle United should be able to avoid relegation this season. The Magpies may be 17th in the Premier League table, but they are nine points above their closest relegation rivals, Fulham.

Steve Bruce's side has done considerably well against the top teams in recent weeks, beating West Ham United and drawing with both Tottenham Hotspur as well as Liverpool.

However, their leaky defence has left them languishing near the bottom of the league, which is an area Bruce will need to address in the summer.

#3 David Luiz could have played his last Arsenal game

David Luiz left the field with an injury.

Arsenal were dealt a huge injury blow after David Luiz was forced off the pitch with a suspected hamstring injury in the second half. That means the Brazilian is expected to miss Arsenal's clash with Villarreal on Thursday, and that also implies that Luiz might have played his last game for the Gunners.

The former Chelsea defender's contract is set to expire this summer, and there is still no word on whether he will remain at Arsenal beyond this season.

With only three weeks to go till the end of the Premier League campaign, it's highly likely Luiz might have worn the Arsenal jersey for the last time in his career, especially if the Gunners fail to make the Europa League final.

The 34-year-old Luiz has made 73 appearances and scored four goals for the North London side.

---

#4 Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang looks in good shape ahead of Europa League semi-final

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted Arsenal's second goal of the game.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang returned to Arsenal's starting XI for the first time since the Gunners' defeat to Liverpool in early April and looked sharp on the field.

In the 76 minutes he played, the Gabonese international assisted Elneny's opener and scored a goal in the second half to ensure his team's win.

With Alexandre Lacazette still unfit, it is almost certain Aubameyang will be in the starting line-up for Arsenal's must-win Europa League semi-final against the Yellow Submarines.

Aubameyang has endured a torrid campaign, scoring just ten goals in 26 Premier League games. That is a far cry from his personal best of 22 goals in the English top flight.

---

#5 Mathew Ryan appears to be a reliable backup to Bernd Leno

Mathew Ryan punching the ball away.

In an unexpected change, Mathew Ryan was given the nod ahead of Bernd Leno for just the third time this season. In his previous appearances, Arsenal lost to Aston Villa and drew 1-1 with Fulham.

This time around, Ryan managed to keep a clean sheet for the Gunners, as Newcastle United mustered only one shot on target all game. When called upon, the Arsenal goalkeeper looked supremely confident in the air, especially in set-pieces.

After losing his place at Brighton and Hove Albion, the Australian international joined Arsenal on loan in January. Arsenal could offer him a permanent contract in the coming weeks.