Mikel Arteta labeled armory4-1 thrashing Aston Villa “A great way to end the year”, but downplayed the significance of his team moving five points clear at the top Premier League,
Villa’s club-record-equalling 11-game winning streak came to an abrupt end on Tuesday as the Gunners scored four times in the second half to end the calendar year cleanly. Manchester City,
City have a game in hand and can move to within two points if they win Sunderland on Thursday, but Pep Guardiola’s side are feeling themselves under pressure after Arsenal produced their best performance in several weeks against Villa.
Gabriel Magalhaes Scored with a close-range header three minutes into the second half on his first start since 8 November Martin Zubimendi Arsenal’s lead was doubled four minutes later.
leandro trossard A third drilled into the house first gabriel jesus Scored his first goal since January with his first touch just seconds after coming on as a substitute Victor Gyokres,
ollie watkins scored a consolation goal in stoppage time, but it was a night that inspired belief that Arsenal could end their 22-year wait for a league title.
“We play every two and a half days,” Arteta said. “The schedule is very, very challenging. We have some very difficult matches, injuries, but the players are very willing.
“So winning helps in all this. All the sacrifices and commitment you make are reflected in the results and great performances. It’s very satisfying but we know there’s still a lot to play for.
“It’s a great way to end the year, that’s for sure. Tomorrow, [we will] Have a good night with our families. Then the next day we’re in and we’ve got to go to Bournemouth and we know what that means.
“This other three points is the only thing that matters. We know when it’s going to be. It’s been an incredible 2025. We know what we want from 2026, we have to earn it and we’re still a long way off.”
Arsenal travel to Bournemouth on Saturday with Arteta hopeful Declan Rice You will get relief from knee injury in time.
