Arteta praises Newcastle’s Isak ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup semi-final clash

• Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised Newcastle striker Alexander Isak’s red-hot form ahead of their semi-final clash
• Isak’s recent goal-scoring spree, including a hat-trick against Ipswich, has put Arsenal’s defence on high alert
• Arsenal aims to secure a first-leg advantage at home before heading to St James’ Park for a decisive second-leg

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta heaped praise on Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak ahead of their Carabao Cup semi-final showdown, highlighting the Swede’s recent form as a potential threat to his side’s ambitions in the tournament.

The Gunners host Newcastle at The Emirates for the first leg on Tuesday night, January 7, aiming to gain an early advantage before facing the Magpies at St James’ Park in the second leg. However, dealing with Isak’s blistering form has emerged as Arteta’s primary concern.

Isak has been a revelation for Newcastle, scoring in each of his last six Premier League appearances, including a memorable hat-trick against relegation-threatened Ipswich Town. His rich vein of form has prompted speculation linking him with a move to Arsenal, with reports suggesting Arteta could target the 25-year-old striker in the summer transfer window.

Speaking to reporters, Arteta acknowledged Isak’s qualities while outlining Arsenal’s defensive strategy to counter the in-form forward,

“Obviously, he is a top player in top form, scoring a lot of goals, trying to minimise the strengths of the opposition is a big part of the plan when playing any opponent.” 

Despite Arteta’s admiration, Newcastle’s reported £150 million valuation of Isak could create significant hurdles for Arsenal if they decide to pursue him, however, according to other news outlets, Newcastle are determined to retain their star striker, making negotiations complicated for potential suitors.

Arteta’s preparations for the semi-final were further disrupted by injury concerns, with promising teenager Ethan Nwaneri ruled out of the tie due to a muscular injury.

The 16-year-old, who scored his second Premier League goal at the weekend, will be sidelined for several weeks, leaving Arteta without one of his most exciting prospects.

“Unfortunately, he [Nwaneri] has picked up an injury and is going to be out for a few weeks,” Arteta confirmed.

While Arsenal will be hoping to contain Isak and exploit Newcastle’s weaknesses, the manager emphasised the importance of remaining focused in pursuit of their second domestic trophy under his leadership.

Rivals scared as Saka unveils major agenda for Arsenal

Previously, TheRadar reported that Arsenal’s effort toward claiming silverware saw a major boost as they secured a Carabao Cup semi-final spot with a hard-fought victory over Crystal Palace. 

Bukayo Saka came off the bench to provide a pivotal assist and later declared that the Gunners are “ready to compete for every trophy” this season.