Manchester City now have a chance to open an eight-point gap over Arsenal after the loss to Newcastle
The Gunners fell to their second defeat of the current campaign after losing 1-0 at Newcastle to put their title hopes in jeopardy.
A superb header from Swedish striker Alexander Isak was the only goal between the sides as Newcastle inflicted the third defeat in four games on Arsenal.
Arsenal have now dropped three points in three games in the Premier League and they are five points off Manchester City at the top of the table.
How it happened
The Gunners began strongly, with Leandro Trossard missing an early chance, but Newcastle soon settled and took the lead in the 12th minute when Isak headed in from Anthony Gordon's cross.
Though Arsenal dominated possession, Newcastle threatened on counter-attacks as the visitors pushed for an equaliser.
Both sides had chances, with Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon delivering dangerous crosses that went unconverted. The game became scrappy, marred by frequent fouls, preventing any real momentum.
Newcastle started the second half with more energy, as Joe Willock forced a save from David Raya. Arsenal maintained possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances, while Isak again tested Raya at the other end.
Mikel Arteta introduced Ethan Nwaneri, Gabriel Jesus, and Ben White to spark a comeback, yet Arsenal were unable to break down Newcastle’s defence.
In the final minutes, Arsenal managed to mount pressure, but Declan Rice’s header in stoppage time sailed wide, encapsulating a frustrating performance and sealing Newcastle's hard-fought victory.