Mikel Arteta was overjoyed after his team, Arsenal, defeated Aston Villa 4-1, securing their spot at the top of the Premier League heading into the new year. This win against a strong opponent on an 11-game winning streak marked a significant highlight as the year wrapped up.
In the match, key second-half goals came from Gabriel, Martin Zubimendi, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus, demonstrating the team’s determination to keep pushing and scoring. Arteta couldn’t hide his excitement. “I’m very happy,” he said. He acknowledged the challenges they faced preparing for such a tough matchup. Beating a team like Aston Villa isn’t easy, and he praised his players for their spirit and drive.
Gabriel made a strong comeback after a six-week injury layoff, scoring the first goal from a corner. Gabriel Jesus, also returning from an 11-month injury, scored a stunning curling goal to round off the match. Arteta emphasized their professionalism and the impact they made right away, noting the importance of having them back in form.
According to a recent survey by the Premier League, Arsenal fans are feeling optimistic about the team’s performance, with 75% believing they can maintain their position at the top. This optimism is bolstered by Arteta’s leadership and the team’s overall improvement since last season.
Fans celebrated this victory enthusiastically on social media. Many took to platforms like Twitter and Instagram, sharing their joy with hashtags like #ArsenalVictory and #TopOfTheLeague.
As they usher in 2026, Arteta expressed gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support. “We created an incredible atmosphere,” he mentioned, recognizing the importance of teamwork during challenging moments. He aims to continue delivering more memorable moments for the supporters in the coming months.
In summary, the match against Aston Villa was not just a win; it was a statement. With both Gabriels back in action and the team showing such promise, Arsenal fans have every reason to feel excited about what lies ahead in the new season. For more insights on Arsenal’s journey through the Premier League, check out detailed analyses on BBC Sport.
