Arsenal closed out 2025 in style with a 4-1 victory over Aston Villa, securing their position as Premier League leaders heading into the new year. The Emirates Stadium erupted as substitute Gabriel Jesus sealed the win with a lightning-fast goal just 60 seconds after stepping onto the pitch 🚀.
Manager Mikel Arteta praised his squad's second-half transformation: "We flipped a switch after halftime – the energy, the precision, everything clicked." The win puts Arsenal five points clear of Manchester City, who play New Year's Day against Sunderland.
Post-match drama unfolded when Villa's Unai Emery skipped the traditional handshake, quipping: "It was cold – I don't wait for anyone." ❄️ Meanwhile, Arsenal's 'no-star striker' strategy proves effective – 15 different players have scored league goals this season.
Elsewhere in the EPL: • Chelsea's rollercoaster 2-2 draw with Bournemouth 🎢 • Manchester United's frustrating 1-1 stalemate vs Wolves 😤 • Everton's 2-0 away win at Forest 🌳
