Eddie Howe was delighted to be back in the dugout after 18 months of life without life on football management's frontline.
But even his joy at being back in work could not disguise the look of concern on his face at the Emirates Stadium.
Speaking after the seventh Premier League defeat of the season for Newcastle, Howe said: "I’m under no illusions.
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"We’re going to stick by it and we have to get points and that’s what we’re going to try to do."
The loss in London places even more pressure on the next two home matches for United as Norwich City and Burnley visit Tyneside in the space of five days.
There isn't a supporter out there who will tell you how high the stakes are in both games.
Howe though felt he could take confidence from the Arsenal game - even in defeat.
He reflected: "I thought we held our own and the game could have been different.
"I’ve missed the cut and thrust and drama of management.
"Pleased to be back in the dugout, disappointed with the result.
"I thought there were some good things from the game at Arsenal."
Newcastle should have had a couple of penalties in the game, with Fabian Schar and Callum Wilson upended.
Howe said: "I don’t think this team has had a lot of luck this season but we are in the position that we’re in and we have to try and create our own luck, that’s what we’re going to endeavour to do.
"In football, if you work hard you’ll get your reward in the end."
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