Manchester City travels to St. James' Park on Saturday to face Newcastle United, with Pep Guardiola's side eager to capitalize on any potential slip-up by Premier League leaders Arsenal. The match is scheduled for a 5:30 PM GMT kick-off.

Title aspirations

Manchester City currently sits second in the league, four points behind Arsenal. A win against Newcastle, combined with favorable results elsewhere, could see them close the gap to just one point. City are in formidable form, having won four consecutive matches in all competitions. Their dominant 3-0 victory over reigning champions Liverpool before the international break served as a significant statement of intent.

Newcastle's struggles

Newcastle United, on the other hand, are looking to turn their season around after a recent slump. Eddie Howe's side has lost their last two Premier League matches, squandering leads in both defeats against West Ham and Brentford. They currently sit in 14th place, seven points off the top four.

Team news and potential lineups

Newcastle will be without key center-back Dan Burn due to suspension, forcing a defensive reshuffle. Lewis Hall is likely to deputize in defense. There are also injury concerns surrounding winger Anthony Gordon (hip) and defender Tino Livramento (knee), who face late fitness tests. On a positive note, goalkeeper Nick Pope has recovered from a head injury and is set to start. Yoane Wissa remains sidelined.

Manchester City will be without midfielder Rodri, who is still recovering from a hamstring issue. Mateo Kovačić remains out with an ankle injury. Nico González could step into midfield alongside Bernardo Silva. Erling Haaland is fully fit and expected to lead the line.

Predicted Lineups

• Newcastle United (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Tonali, Guimarães, Joelinton; Murphy, Woltemade, Gordon.

• Manchester City: (Likely unavailable)

Key Matchups

A key matchup will be between Sven Botman and Erling Haaland. Keeping Haaland in check will be crucial for Newcastle's chances of getting a result. Another interesting battle will be between Kieran Trippier and Jeremy Doku.

Form analysis

Newcastle's recent form has been inconsistent, with two wins and four losses in their last six league matches. Manchester City have won five of their last six league matches.

Historical context

Manchester City has a strong recent record against Newcastle, remaining unbeaten in their last 12 meetings. Eddie Howe has never beaten Manchester City in 18 Premier League attempts.

Prediction

Given Manchester City's current form and their historical dominance over Newcastle, they are the favorites to win this match. However, Newcastle's home form has been relatively strong, and they will be looking to put up a fight in front of their home fans.