With an outstanding performance in the second half, Arsenal FC impressively underlined its ambitions for the English football championship.
In the last Premier League game of the year, the Gunners outclassed previous title rivals Aston Villa 4-1 (0-0). Gabriel (48th minute), Martin Zubimendi (52nd minute), Leandro Trossard (69th) and Gabriel Jesus (78th) scored for a clear victory, with the Londoners maintaining their lead in the table. Ollie Watkins (90+4) only scored the goal for Villa, which had previously won eleven competitive games in a row, in stoppage time.
After an even first half with no goals, Arsenal turned things up after the break. Central defender Gabriel scored with his thigh after a corner. Four minutes later, Zubimendi increased after an assist from captain Martin Odegaard. Trossard’s goal, which was only confirmed after a minute-long VAR check, was already the preliminary decision.
Gabriel Jesus scores on the comeback, Havertz is in the squad
But the Londoners didn’t have enough. Just a minute after coming on, Gabriel Jesus scored. The Brazilian only returned to the pitch in December after a long injury break.
Kai Havertz, who also had to take a long break due to injury, was back in the squad. However, the German international remained on the bench for 90 minutes. Villa had their best chances in eight minutes of stoppage time. The Birmingham team, coached by former Arsenal coach Unai Emery, were denied by the post and by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya before Watkins finally scored a consolation goal.
Manchester City can come close again against Sunderland on New Year’s Day
With the clear win, leaders Arsenal have 45 points after 19 games with a goal difference of 25. Second-placed Manchester City have 40 points and a slightly better goal difference, as well as playing one game less. The Citizens play at AFC Sunderland on New Year’s Day. Aston Villa remains in third place, but is now six points behind the league leaders from London.
“We know what we want. We will have to work very hard every day, but I think we are on the right track”said Arsenal team manager Mikel Arteta, who is hoping to finally win his first championship in his seventh year with the Gunners.