Overview
- VAR allowed Gabriel’s headed opener despite Aston Villa claims Emiliano Martinez was fouled, with replays indicating the goalkeeper had not secured the ball.
- Martinez later shared a social media post implying Gabriel headed the ball from his hands, according to coverage citing the Daily Mail.
- Gabriel Magalhaes and Martin Zubimendi scored within four minutes early in the second half before Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus added goals, with Ollie Watkins replying late for Villa.
- Already on a booking, Mikel Merino halted Morgan Rogers with a shirt pull, and ex-Premier League official Mark Halsey described it as a “nailed on” second yellow.
- Mikel Arteta substituted Merino shortly afterward, Arsenal moved six points clear of Villa with the win, and no official disciplinary reversal has been reported.