Bukayo Saka Left ‘Speechless’ At Pivotal Newcastle vs Arsenal Moment.

Arsenal edged past Newcastle United in a fiery and controversial Premier League clash at St. James’ Park, sealing a dramatic late victory that keeps them firmly in the early-season title race. Gabriel Magalhaes proved to be the hero with his emotional late header, ensuring the Gunners closed the gap to within two points of league leaders Liverpool. The celebrations on the pitch reflected just how much this win meant to Mikel Arteta and his squad.

The game was not short of drama, both on and off the pitch. Noni Madueke sent a message of support to Gabriel after his decisive goal, highlighting the respect between players across the league. Meanwhile, Arteta’s passionate display on the touchline once again attracted attention, with some critics branding him a “lunatic” for his over-the-top celebrations. However, the Spaniard will hardly be bothered after watching his team secure such an important three points.

One of the key talking points came earlier in the match when Viktor Gyokeres appeared to have won a penalty for Arsenal, only for VAR to intervene. The decision was overturned after a lengthy review, sparking outrage from Arteta, who argued that the intervention did not meet the standard of a “clear and obvious” error. His frustration was evident in his post-match comments, where he made it clear he believes VAR continues to overstep.

Bukayo Saka also weighed in on the controversy, admitting that he was left stunned by the referee’s decision. “I’m speechless,” he admitted after full-time. “For me, if we have VAR it’s for clear and obvious error. The fact it took the ref that long to decide it shows it’s not a clear error. These little things always go against us, but today we got what we deserved.” Saka’s remarks reflected the sentiment of many Arsenal fans who felt the team had once again been hard done by.
Interestingly, Saka was not on the pitch when Newcastle equalised through Mikel Merino or when Gabriel scored the winner. He had been substituted in the 70th minute for Gabriel Martinelli after a quiet performance.

Arteta’s decision to withdraw him was likely influenced by the need to protect his star winger, who has only recently returned from a hamstring injury and has yet to hit top form this season.
Statistically, Saka’s night was underwhelming.

Despite recording 12 goals and 14 assists last season, he has managed just one goal in five matches so far this campaign. Against Newcastle, he struggled to make a consistent impact in attack, though he did contribute with his defensive work and ball retention. His limited influence raised questions about his match sharpness, but Arteta’s decision to rest him late on may prove beneficial in the long run.

With a Europa League clash against Olympiacos on the horizon, Arsenal will need to carefully manage Saka’s minutes. His importance to the team is undeniable, but his injury record makes him a player who requires careful handling. A short break midweek could allow him to regain full sharpness before Arsenal continue their push in both domestic and European competitions. For now, the Gunners can take pride in a hard-fought win that keeps them well within touching distance of the Premier League summit.