Saka ´can´t believe´ how bad Arsenal were in Newcastle defeat

Bukayo Saka says he could not believe how badly Arsenal played in a 2-0 defeat at Newcastle United that will surely cost them a Champions League place next season.

A win at St James’ Park on Monday would have moved the Gunners back above fierce rivals Tottenham into fourth place heading into the final day of the Premier League season.

Mikel Arteta’s side failed to rise to the occasion on Tyneside, though, as a Ben White own goal and a late Bruno Guimaraes strike left them shell-shocked.

Spurs will realistically only need a point against already relegated Norwich City on Sunday to qualify for the Champions League due to a far superior goal difference to Arsenal, who are host Everton on the last day of the campaign.

The Gunners only had one shot on target as Newcastle dominated and are seemingly destined for the Europa League again next season.

England winger Saka says they only have themselves to blame.

“Overall there is huge disappointment and frustration,” he said. “I just can’t believe how we performed.

“We lost all our duels. We lost all the second balls. We didn’t play out well. Just overall disappointment in every aspect.”

Bukayo shared his thoughts after a disappointing night at St. James’ Park

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 16, 2022

Saka says the loss was hard to take, but Arsenal must regroup before facing the relegation-threatened Toffees.

“I think it’s going to hurt a lot of us,” Saka added.

“You know, all of us, the fans – all of our families. But come Sunday against Everton at the Emirates we’re going to be there to win, and hopefully things go our way. That’s all you can do from now.

“Technically it’s not over, we can still do it, but we’ve missed out on two big opportunities to put ourselves in a good position. So it’s just a shame.”