Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a sobering assessment of Aston Villa's Premier League credentials, admitting Unai Emery's side are genuine title contenders after they inflicted a dramatic late defeat on his Gunners.
A Last-Minute Heartbreak at Villa Park
The pivotal moment came deep into stoppage time at a raucous Villa Park. With the score locked at 1-1, Emi Buendia struck in the 95th minute, firing into the corner past a helpless David Raya to send the home supporters into raptures. The goal capped a thrilling encounter that had seen Matty Cash put Villa ahead ten minutes before the interval, only for Arsenal substitute Leandro Trossard to equalise early in the second half.
Arteta's Post-Match Analysis and Concession
Speaking after the final whistle on December 7, a visibly disappointed Arteta paid tribute to Villa's quality before issuing a warning about the long season ahead. "We are extremely disappointed about how we lost the game, but first of all, congratulations to Villa because they are a really good side and they are really good at what they do," the Arsenal boss stated.
He analysed the match's key moments, highlighting his team's first-half errors and a missed opportunity to win the game late on before Buendia's winner. "My feeling was that we were going to go on and win the game," Arteta admitted. "They played a long ball, we put it out for a throw-in, they played fast, and caused a lot of chaos in the box, and then they put it in the top corner. This is the quality of this league."
The Verdict on Villa's Title Credentials
When pressed directly on whether Aston Villa should now be considered part of the Premier League title race, Arteta's response was unequivocal. "They are when you look at where they are, how they play and how they beat some big teams at home," he said.
He emphasised the competitive nature of the division, referencing tough away fixtures at grounds like Old Trafford and St. James' Park. "Everybody is going to play everybody. At the moment they are where they are and we are there as well," Arteta concluded, acknowledging the tightness at the top of the table following Arsenal's first defeat in 19 games.
The Spaniard finished by insisting his team must now respond, saying, "We were unbeaten in 18 games and now the table is close. That is the level of the league. Now it is time to bounce back." This result not only boosts Villa's ambitions but also sets up a fascinating and intensely competitive Premier League title battle as the season progresses.
