What William Saliba did in Arsenal defeat to Newcastle that left Mikel Arteta in disbelief

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Newcastle United have one foot in the EFL Cup final as Arsenal fell apart in the first leg at the Emirates.

Mikel Arteta was taught a lesson in recruitment by Eddie Howe as Newcastle’s rampant forwards punished the Gunners when given the chance. 

While Arsenal dominated when it came to chance creation, a similar narrative appeared as the North Londoners couldn’t convert. 

It was a disastrous night in the first leg for Arsenal, who now carry a two goal deficit to St James’ Park in what is a staggeringly steep uphill battle.

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William Saliba stunned Mikel Arteta against Newcastle 

Arteta’s attack is bare due to added injury strain however, there was no excuse for the performance produced in the final third from the Gunners.

While the front line will be put under the microscope, it wasn’t only in advanced positions that the hosts struggled, as the defence was tested tremendously.

Lee Dixon criticised William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes against Newcastle, as the usually trustworthy duo were torn apart by Alexander Isak and co. 

Dixon wasn’t the only figure to be let down by Saliba, as Arteta was spotted being left in a state of disbelief by one thing the Frenchman did. 

Reporting from the Emirates was journalist Sam Dean, who spotted the Arsenal manager reacting in an animated fashion as Saliba attempted to contribute in the dying embers. 

As the centre-back attempted to send a cross into the box, Arteta was seen to ‘put his head in his hands’ as the ball left the defender’s foot.

The boss will have a lot of words for his squad in the dressing room after being exposed by the Magpies, with Saliba one of several players who have a lot to prove in the second leg.

Rare low performance from Saliba

Saliba is one of Arsenal’s most important players, being a figure Arteta can consistently call upon to bring success and solidity to the squad.

Against Newcastle, the France international had a rare off-day, as his numbers displayed. 

The 23-year-old dominated by making six clearances however, he lost possession seven times and was dribbled past once, as Isak left him eating dust to burst into the Arsenal box.

By the defender’s high standards, it was a night to forget against Newcastle, with a lot to put right in the decisive second leg.