Fulham and Newcastle Name Unchanged Shapes for Craven Cottage Finale

Fulham and Newcastle United have confirmed their starting lineups for Sunday's Premier League finale at Craven Cottage, with both managers opting for a 4-2-3-1 shape. Álvaro Arbeloa and Matthias Jaissle each named their XIs ahead of the 4pm kick-off, and the selections offer the first concrete look at how the two sides will set up on the final day.

Arbeloa's Fulham will line up in a 4-2-3-1, a shape that gives the hosts a double pivot in midfield and three attacking players behind a lone striker. The formation is designed to provide width through the full-backs while keeping two midfielders centrally to screen the back four. Bernd Leno starts in goal, with Calvin Bassey in defence and Antonee Robinson and Amar Dedić likely occupying the full-back roles. Alex Iwobi is among the key players named in the XI, expected to feature in the attacking line behind the striker.

The 4-2-3-1 allows Fulham to press in a mid-block or drop into a compact shape when out of possession. With Robinson and Dedić pushing forward, the wide areas become a primary source of crosses, while the double pivot protects the centre-backs. Iwobi's inclusion suggests Arbeloa wants creativity and ball-carrying in the final third.

Newcastle United, under Matthias Jaissle, will match Fulham's 4-2-3-1. The identical shapes set up a series of direct duels across the pitch, particularly in midfield where both sides will look to control the centre. Jaissle's selection indicates a similar approach: a back four, two holding midfielders, and a fluid attacking trio behind a central striker.

The match at Craven Cottage is the final game of the 2025/26 Premier League season for both clubs. With nothing left to play for in the table, the focus shifts to how the two managers implement their ideas. The 4pm kick-off is simultaneous with the other nine Premier League matches on the final day.

The confirmed XIs show both managers sticking with a familiar structure. For Fulham, the presence of Leno, Bassey, Robinson, Dedić, and Iwobi highlights a blend of defensive solidity and attacking width. Newcastle's unnamed starters will look to exploit the spaces behind Fulham's advanced full-backs.

With both teams in 4-2-3-1, the game could hinge on which side wins the midfield battle and transitions quicker. The double pivots will be key in breaking up play and launching attacks. Fulham's home advantage and the Craven Cottage crowd may give them an edge, but Newcastle's matching shape suggests they are prepared to go toe-to-toe.

Kick-off is at 4pm at Craven Cottage. The final day of the Premier League season is here, and both sides will be eager to end on a high note.