“They Are Not So Far Off Arsenal…” – Iraola Issues Verdict On Newcastle’s Title Credentials

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has suggested that Newcastle are very much in contention for the Premier League title, heading into the game at St James’ Park this weekend.

Eddie Howe’s men have closed to within 9 points of league leaders Liverpool after winning six league games in a row and, asked about their title credentials, Iraola replied:

“They are not so far off Arsenal, who are title challengers. It’s not a question for me.”

Another victory on Saturday will undoubtedly add fuel to the fire that the Magpies can compete for top spot but it won’t be an easy match against the Cherries.

Bournemouth are not to be taken lightly

Iraola’s men were within seconds of beating Chelsea at Stamford Bridge midweek and, while they are not quite as strong away from home as they are on their own patch, they are a formidable opponent.

Newcastle can’t afford to underestimate them and it is likely to be a very tight contest, with both sides in good form.

Shearer believes that Newcastle can win the title

Ex-Magpies captain Alan Shearer is never shy in backing his former team and, asked about the club’s chances of finishing top of the table on Match of the Day earlier this week, he said:

“The form they’re on, the way they’re looking, defensively solid, clean sheets, the midfield – it’s no doubt they’ve got the system working – and with him (Alexander Isak) up front, they’ve got a chance.”

A lot would still have to go in Newcastle’s favour for them to become genuine title contenders. Liverpool would have to drop a lot more points, while Arsenal would also have to falter. We shall have to wait and see how things develop over the coming weeks and months.

Find out who is in Newcastle United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here

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David Tully

David Tully

David has worked as a football reporter for the last fifteen years. Having started as an intern at Snack Media, he then went on to become a freelancer, working on various different sites. At the start of 2023, he took up his current role as content writer for National World's Football News Network.