Arsenal capped off 2025 in style on December 30, demolishing title rivals Aston Villa 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium in Premier League of Matchweek 19 roundup. Gabriel Magalhães headed home shortly after halftime, before Martín Zubimendi doubled the lead. Leandro Trossard and substitute Gabriel Jesus added further goals, with Ollie Watkins scoring a late consolation for Villa. The result ended Unai Emery’s side’s 11-match winning streak. It also propelled Mikel Arteta‘s team five points clear at the Premier League summit. This is leeting them head into 2026 as firm favorites to end their long title drought.
🚨Arsenal player ratings vs Aston Villa :
Gabriel Magalhães: 9🌟– Key goal, strong defensive presence on return from injury.
Martin Zubimendi: 9 – Dominated duels and scored a vital goal.
Leandro Trossard: 9 – Created chances, scored a beautiful goal, and assisted.
Martin… pic.twitter.com/Jd1DddmrzM
— Arsenal Radar (@ArsenalRadar) December 30, 2025
Red Devils Frustrated at Old Trafford
Manchester United’s turbulent year concluded on a sour note. They were held to a 1-1 draw by rock-bottom Wolverhampton Wanderers in Matchweek 19 roundup. Joshua Zirkzee gave Ruben Amorim’s side the lead, but Ladislav Krejčí equalized. This earned Wolves a valuable point in their battle against the relegation. Despite dominating possession, United lacked the clinical edge, missing the chance to climb into the top four. A late goal was disallowed for offside, leaving fans frustrated and highlighting ongoing inconsistencies under Amorim.
Standings as 2025 Closes
Arsenal sit atop the table with a five-point cushion over second-placed Manchester City (who have a game in hand), while Aston Villa remain third, now six points adrift. Manchester United linger in mid-table, their European aspirations dented. At the bottom, Wolves’ draw lifted them slightly but they remain rooted with just three points, facing a monumental fight for survival alongside promoted sides like Burnley and Sunderland.
The finer details behind a big win 🔎
Take an analytical look at our 4-1 victory over Aston Villa 👇
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 31, 2025
Looking to 2026
The Premier League pauses briefly for the new year, but the title race intensifies with Arsenal’s momentum contrasting City’s reliability. United must regroup quickly amid mounting pressure on Amorim. As fixtures resume, the unpredictability promises more drama in England’s top flight.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
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