Arsenal delivered a powerful statement to end the year 2025, demolishing third-placed Aston Villa 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, December 31. The victory sent Mikel Arteta's men five points clear at the Premier League summit, simultaneously halting Villa's impressive club-record winning streak of 11 games.
The Post-Match Handshake That Wasn't
The comprehensive win, however, was followed by a minor moment of intrigue when Aston Villa manager Unai Emery departed the pitch without partaking in the customary post-match handshake with his opposite number, Arteta. Emery, who formerly managed Arsenal, later addressed the incident with a light-hearted explanation.
"After the match, my routine is always quick — to shake hands and go with my coaches and players or to the dressing room," Emery stated. "I was waiting, and waiting. Of course, he was happy and with his coaches, and I decided to go inside. It's cold outside. But for me, it's not a problem."
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta echoed the sentiment, dismissing any notion of controversy. "No, that's OK. That's part of the game, not an issue at all," he confirmed, putting the focus squarely back on the football.
Arsenal's Dominant Display on the Pitch
The match itself was a showcase of Arsenal's title credentials. After a tense first half, the Gunners exploded into action after the break. Defender Gabriel Magalhaes broke the deadlock in the 48th minute, forcing the ball home from a corner.
Just four minutes later, the lead was doubled. Captain Martin Odegaard's precise through-ball found Martin Zubimendi, who made no mistake to give Arsenal firm control. The points were effectively sealed when Leandro Trossard fired in a superb strike from the edge of the box.
Substitute Gabriel Jesus added a fourth to complete the rout, with Villa's Ollie Watkins managing only a consolation goal deep into stoppage time.
Premier League Implications
This emphatic result has significant ramifications for the Premier League title race. Arsenal now sit top with 45 points, applying pressure on their rivals. Second-placed Manchester City, who have a game in hand, will aim to close the gap when they face Sunderland on Thursday.
For Aston Villa, the defeat is a setback, leaving them six points behind the leaders. However, their position in the top three remains a testament to their strong season under Unai Emery. The clash between the two managers, both on and off the pitch, provided a fascinating subplot to a decisive Premier League encounter.
