Aston Villa have carved their name into the history books, securing a remarkable tenth consecutive Premier League victory with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Manchester United at Villa Park. This stunning run represents the club's best top-flight sequence in 111 years, perfectly capping off their home campaign for 2025.
Rogers the Hero in Villa's Historic Victory
The match was defined by the brilliance of Morgan Rogers, who netted both of Villa's goals. The 23-year-old opened the scoring with a stunning strike, before restoring the lead just before the hour mark after Matheus Cunha had levelled for United on the stroke of half-time. Rogers now has seven league goals this season, showcasing a dramatic evolution in his game under Unai Emery's tutelage.
Emery's management of the young forward has been pivotal. From initial reminders of his Championship roots to unwavering support during a dip in form, the coach's faith has been repaid in spectacular fashion. Rogers has now scored 21 goals across all competitions since the start of last season, making him the youngest player to hit 20+ goals for a Premier League side in that period.
Emery's Half-Time Wake-Up Call
Despite the result, manager Unai Emery revealed he was forced to deliver a stern rebuke to his players during the interval. He felt the team had grown "too relaxed" in the first half, perhaps complacent after nine straight wins. Emery stressed the need to avoid expecting victory simply because of their formidable home form.
"I told them in the dressing room in the first half, we were not performing very well," Emery stated. "We were a little bit relaxed... and we needed to realise in the second half that we needed more." The players responded, showing the resilience and mentality that has become their trademark, ultimately grinding out the crucial three points.
Martinez Answers His Summer Admirers
The victory was also a personal triumph for goalkeeper Emi Martinez. Facing a Manchester United side that had considered signing him in the summer before opting for Senne Lammens, the Argentine put in a commanding performance. He made several key saves, including a crucial early stop from Benjamin Sesko, and commanded his area with authority.
After the final whistle, Martinez celebrated with the Holte End, dancing in front of the adoring fans while wearing a Villa-themed Santa hat. In a moment that delighted supporters, he was seen kissing the club crest on the hat before throwing it back into the stand, serenaded by chants of 'Emi Martinez, the world’s number one'.
With this win, Villa have amassed 36 points by Christmas, a tally bettered only by their 2023-24 campaign in the Premier League era. Historical data suggests that securing around 20 wins in a season is typically sufficient for a top-four finish. Villa currently sit comfortably inside the top five, holding a nine-point cushion and setting a thrilling stage for their next fixture away at Chelsea.
