This win could be one that Arsenal reflects upon come May. Facing a Premier League team in top form, Aston Villa, who arrived in north London with eight consecutive victories, Arsenal delivered a stunning performance with a four-goal surge in just 30 minutes at the Emirates. Mikel Arteta, visibly ecstatic on the touchline, made it clear that this was his most significant statement to date.
The message sent to Manchester City was unmistakable: Arsenal is here to compete fiercely. Recent weeks have shown nervous moments for Arsenal fans, eager for this season to be truly theirs, especially in the Premier League. This match was a crucial test of their championship credentials, taking on a team boasting 11 straight wins across all competitions with star player Morgan Rogers. The presence of former manager Unai Emery, aiming for a huge double within 24 days, added pressure, but Arsenal responded as if they were champions.
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Arsenal’s virtually unstoppable set-piece strategy shows no signs of slowing down. Set-piece coach Nicolas Jover may attract some playful criticism for his animated gestures, but the results are impressive, with 17 goals from corners in the calendar year alone. In the 47th minute, Gabriel, returning from injury, capitalized after Emiliano Martinez fumbled a high ball, marking the turning point of the match. From there, it was all Arsenal.
Gabriel celebrates scoring Arsenal’s opening goal (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arteta spoke glowingly about Gabriel, who is affectionately known as “Big Gabi” in the dressing room, saying, “He came back from a six-week injury, which could have been longer, to play against a very challenging opponent, one that creates a lot of chances. His impact on the game was incredible, both defensively and offensively.”
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Gabriel’s return, along with William Saliba, is crucial for Arsenal’s aspirations of capturing their first title in 22 years. A late consolation from Ollie Watkins spoiled what had been a flawless defensive record for Arsenal this season: five clean sheets from as many matches played. The Brazilian’s strength and aerial ability can change the course of games in seconds, a capability demonstrated during Arsenal’s recent performance against Atletico Madrid, and again in this match.
Martin Zubimendi added the second goal shortly after the opener, showcasing skills reminiscent of the absent Declan Rice. Following that with precise strikes were Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus, sealing a night to remember for the 60,000 fans in attendance.
Emery, in a hurry to exit the pitch, notably avoided a handshake with Arteta, offering an excuse of feeling “cold.” Arsenal fans gleefully taunted an irritated Martinez as he left the field. Their team stands five points clear of City, who have a game in hand, and six ahead of Villa, fueling dreams of glory and celebration in the upcoming months.
The atmosphere leading up to the match was electric, marked by a lively pre-match light show, fireworks, and anticipation. The significance of the occasion was palpable, especially three weeks since their last league encounter that resulted in a thrilling last-minute win for Villa. There would be no repeat of that here.
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Much of the buildup centered on Villa’s Ollie Watkins, especially with Declan Rice absent due to injury, but it was Arsenal’s £64m striker Viktor Gyokeres who lost possession to set up a chance for Watkins, who squandered an excellent opportunity by shooting wide. Gyokeres also had a couple of missed chances in the first half, while Villa’s Amadou Onana impressed before sustaining an injury that forced his exit at half-time. Morgan Rogers, the league’s standout midfielder, showcased flashes of brilliance but also exposed vulnerabilities in the Arsenal defense.
By the half, the fans expressed their frustration through jeers, reflecting dissatisfaction with the tactical battle and some officiating decisions.
Martin Zubimendi made it two with a poked finish (John Walton/PA Wire)
Unai Emery saw Aston Villa’s winning run end (Reuters)
Ultimately, Arsenal’s first corner led to the breakthrough. Gabriel took full advantage of Martinez’s error, benefitting from a corner just two minutes into the second half. A VAR check quickly ruled out any controversy; it simply highlighted a goalkeeping blunder.
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Five minutes later, Jadon Sancho’s inadequate challenge allowed Martin Odegaard to effortlessly dispossess him before elegantly setting up Zubimendi, who calmly slotted the ball past Martinez for the second goal.
Stunned and scrambling, Villa struggled to regain their footing amidst the whirlwind five minutes, and there would be no tactical adjustments effective enough to turn the tide for Emery.
With Arsenal now firing on all cylinders, Odegaard had a shot saved, followed by Trossard, who scored the third goal, unquestionable despite a lengthy VAR check.
Substitute Gabriel Jesus then emerged to round off the night, curling in a stunning goal with his very first touch on the pitch, celebrating with a “I belong to Jesus” undershirt, leaving no doubt about his presence.
Leandro Trossard scored Arsenal’s third (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus celebrates scoring the fourth goal (John Walton/PA) (PA Wire)
Bukayo Saka could have extended the tally, and Watkins eventually found the net for Villa, but it was of little consequence.
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From the stands rang out the chant, “We are top of the league,” a sentiment that will remain true as Arsenal heads into the New Year, regardless of City’s outcome against Sunderland. This could indeed be the year Arsenal fans have long yearned for.