Episode 129 — The Non-Negotiables

Arsenal navigate a tricky week with plenty to talk about. We kick off with the Port Vale recap, asking if the Gunners are becoming a little predictable or even boring. The discussion moves into system & player roles, and whether sitting back after taking the lead is a growing theme.

Injuries remain front and centre, with concerns over Saliba and Saka, while doubts grow around Gyökeres and his fit in Arteta’s system. We dive into the ongoing questions about Gabriel Jesus’ fitness, before shining a light on the youngsters — from Ethan Nwaneri to the standout Max Dowman.

The lads also look ahead: a tough Carabao Cup tie vs Brighton, the newly-signed Saliba contract, and a detailed Newcastle preview with XI predictions. We wrap by debating whether Arsenal need to be playing for a striker and asking: will either side have one eye on Europe?

👉 Listen in for all this and more, with full chapter markers below for easy navigation.

(00:00) - Intro & Show Preview

(00:42) - Port Vale Recap

(01:26) - Are We Boring?

(03:33) - System & Player Roles

(04:40) - Sitting Back When Ahead?

(06:21) - Saliba, Saka & Injury Fears

(08:53) - Gyökeres Criticism

(14:47) - Where is Gabriel Jesus?

(17:11) - We’re Through

(17:52) - Ethan Nwaneri

(19:29) - The Goals (Eze & Trossard)

(21:05) - Max Dowman Shines

(23:18) - Carabao Cup Outlook (Brighton up Next)

(25:46) - PT.2 Who Am I?

(27:51) - Saliba Agrees New Contract

(30:43) - Newcastle Preview

(39:41) - Starting XI Predictions

(44:06) - Playing For A Striker?

(47:15) - Will Arsenal or Newcastle Have Europe On Their Mind?

(52:52) - Who Am I? Reveal