Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has publicly disagreed with his Aston Villa counterpart Unai Emery over the Midlands club's status as Premier League title challengers, following a dramatic 2-1 victory for Villa at Villa Park on Saturday, December 7, 2025.
Emery Plays Down Villa's Title Credentials
Despite overseeing a stunning run of form that has propelled his team to third in the table, Unai Emery was quick to dismiss suggestions that Villa could win the league. Following the crucial win, which was sealed by a last-gasp goal from Emi Buendia, Emery stated his team are not contenders.
'I am not thinking in it,' said the Villa boss. 'I know 38 matches is very difficult, we are not a contender. If we were in day 35, perhaps we can speak differently. Arsenal are the best team in the Premier League until now.'
Emery emphasised a game-by-game approach, focusing on his team's upcoming Europa Conference League match against Basel and the importance of consistency over the marathon season.
Arteta's Firm Rebuttal and League Implications
In a stark contrast of opinions, Mikel Arteta was unequivocal when asked if Villa have the quality to compete for the championship. 'They are,' insisted the Arsenal manager. 'When you look at where they are, the way they play, they have beaten some big teams, especially at home. Everybody is going to have to play everybody, so at the moment they are where they are and we are there as well.'
The result has significant consequences for the Premier League title race. Arsenal's defeat, coupled with Manchester City's 3-0 win over Sunderland, means the Gunners' lead at the summit has been slashed to just two points.
Villa's Form Makes Them a Genuine Force
The debate is fueled by Aston Villa's exceptional recent record. Their victory over Arsenal marked a ninth win in ten Premier League matches, a run that has seen them climb to within three points of the league leaders.
This rich vein of form, which includes impressive performances against other top sides, is the foundation for Arteta's claim. While Emery prefers to manage expectations, the statistics and league position present a compelling case that Villa are, at the very least, a disruptive force in this season's championship battle.
The outcome at Villa Park has undoubtedly intensified the Premier League title race, setting up a fascinating second half of the season where Aston Villa's role, despite their manager's protests, looks increasingly pivotal.
