Overview
- Second-half goals from Gabriel Magalhaes, Martin Zubimendi, Leandro Trossard and substitute Gabriel Jesus settled a dominant display, with Ollie Watkins netting a late consolation for Villa.
- Gabriel’s opener from a corner was allowed to stand after a VAR check for contact with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
- Arteta framed the performance as a statement of intent after recent near-misses, praising Gabriel’s impact on his return to the starting lineup.
- Arsenal hold a five-point advantage over Manchester City, who can trim the gap when they visit Sunderland on Thursday.
- Elsewhere, Manchester United drew 1-1 with bottom side Wolves and Chelsea were held 2-2 by Bournemouth, while an outside analysis warned West Ham’s owners may need to gamble in January to ward off relegation.