Howe Believes Newcastle Showed Improvement Despite Loss to Arsenal

Eddie Howe remains optimistic that Newcastle United have begun to turn a corner despite their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, highlighting a "big step forward" in their performance at the Emirates Stadium.

The loss marked Newcastle’s fifth consecutive defeat in all competitions, with Eberechi Eze’s early goal securing victory for the title-chasing Gunners. The Magpies have now suffered nine Premier League losses in 2026, equaling the highest number of defeats in the league alongside Tottenham and Burnley.

However, Howe pointed to encouraging signs in Newcastle’s display, as they held over half of the possession and registered 13 shots compared to Arsenal’s 11.

"Today was a big step forward in terms of our performance—we haven’t hit the heights in recent weeks," Howe said. "I think it was our best defensive performance for a long time. We looked solid, we looked good. I thought we saw defensive resilience; we didn’t have the look of a team who was going to concede today. To lose in the manner we did is disappointing."

He added: "We have to get out of the habit of losing games. The disappointing run continues, and that’s something we want to stop. Performances always give you hope you’re heading in the right direction. Today, I hope will be a turning of the corner for us."

Newcastle remain 14th in the Premier League, now eight points adrift of European qualification with four matches left.

Bruno Guimarães, making his first start since February, acknowledged the need for improvement for the sake of the club’s supporters.

"We fight, especially today," he said. "I know this season has not been good enough. It’s not what the fans deserve. The fires are still there, but we have to show more. It’s not easy to come here, but at least today, we showed passion. We have four games to try and qualify for European football next season."

Guimarães added: "I am just a player, but we have to improve a lot of things in the club. I think we need help."