Arsenal maintained their strong start to the 2024/25 Premier League campaign with a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday evening. Mikel Arteta’s side, aiming to challenge Manchester City for the title, knew this away fixture would be a tough test.
Villa, under Unai Emery, secured Champions League qualification last season and bolstered their squad over the summer, presenting a formidable challenge for the Gunners.
The match was chaotic, with both teams creating opportunities to take the lead. Villa appeared set to score when David Raya’s save from Amadou Onana’s deflected shot fell to Ollie Watkins, who was unmarked and poised to head in from six yards. However, Raya made an extraordinary recovery, diving to his right to stop Watkins’ header, a moment already being hailed as a potential save of the season.
With less than 20 minutes remaining, Arteta introduced Leandro Trossard, hoping the Belgian could break the deadlock. Trossard delivered immediately, scoring with his first touch after Bukayo Saka’s low cross found its way to him, sending Arsenal’s travelling supporters into a frenzy.
Arsenal doubled their lead just 10 minutes later. Trossard was involved again, but it was Saka’s precise pass that set up Thomas Partey on the edge of the box. The Ghanaian’s low shot slipped past Emiliano Martinez, who failed to keep it out, sealing all three points for Arsenal.
The Gunners have now won both of their opening fixtures and are keeping pace with Manchester City, while Villa remain on three points after two games.
