Unai Emery has described Aston Villa's upcoming match against Arsenal as their toughest challenge yet in the Premier League title race. Villa sit three points behind the leaders following a run of 11 straight wins across all competitions. The clash at the Emirates comes just weeks after Villa's dramatic 2-1 victory over Arsenal at home.
Preview: Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Aston Villa head to the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening for a pivotal Premier League encounter with leaders Arsenal, a game Unai Emery labels as his side's 'biggest test' this season. Villa, who trail by three points, have surged into title contention with an impressive 11-game winning streak in all competitions, including an eight-game run in the league—their longest since 1910. Their latest triumph was a 2-1 comeback against Chelsea on Saturday, where substitute Ollie Watkins scored twice in the second half.
Emery, speaking ahead of the rematch, reflected on Villa's narrow 2-1 win over Arsenal three weeks ago at Villa Park, sealed by a late Emi Buendia goal. 'They are competing in the highest level in football,' Emery said of his former club. 'We showed our capacity to respond, to compete against them... but tomorrow is going to be a different match because they are playing in Emirates, and they are going to feel stronger.' He emphasized the need for adaptation, individual duels, and tactical structure, while acknowledging Arsenal's favorites status bolstered by returning players like Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, is navigating injury woes that could prompt January signings. Key absences include Havertz (knee), Ben White (hamstring), and Cristhian Mosquera (ankle), with Riccardo Calafiori (muscle) and Jurrien Timber (knock) doubtful. 'We have to be actively looking' at reinforcements, Arteta stated, highlighting the squad's depth issues amid a congested schedule.
Arteta praised Villa's consistency under Emery: 'They merit to be there... they are doing it on the pitch.' Arsenal boast a strong home record, winning nine of their last 10 league games at the Emirates, but Villa have won three of the last five meetings. Despite Villa's resilience—recovering 18 points from losing positions this season—the Gunners' form suggests a tight contest.
Emery remains ambitious: 'Our ambition is, go tomorrow to face them and we'll see how we are facing them.' With Manchester City also in the mix, one point ahead of Villa per some reports, this matchup could shape the title race heading into 2026.
