Former Arsenal and England midfielder Paul Merson has made a stunning prediction, declaring that Mikel Arteta's side will win the Premier League title 'quite easily' following their emphatic statement victory over Aston Villa.
A Second-Half Masterclass at the Emirates
The pivotal moment came on December 31, 2025, at the Emirates Stadium. After a goalless first half, league leaders Arsenal exploded into life after the break to dismantle one of Europe's most in-form teams. The 4-1 win ended Villa's impressive 11-match winning streak in spectacular fashion.
Gabriel Magalhaes broke the deadlock on his first Premier League start since returning from injury. Martin Zubimendi swiftly added a second just seven minutes later, with Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus putting the result beyond doubt. Ollie Watkins' late strike was a mere consolation for the visitors.
Merson's Convincing Title Verdict
Analysing the match for Sky Sports, Merson was effusive in his praise. 'It was an outstanding 30 minutes from Arsenal in the second half,' he said. 'They suffocated Aston Villa and made them look pretty average in the end. It's a massive result.'
Looking at the title race, Merson emphasised the significance of Arsenal's five-point lead at the summit, coupled with a superior goal difference. He pointed to their favourable run-in, with all major rivals except Manchester City still to visit the Emirates.
'Looking at Arsenal, with the away fixtures they have already played and this result against Villa, I don't know who will stop them,' Merson stated. 'I think they win the Premier League quite easily. It was a statement result and Man City will have been watching. They will be thinking "wow" after that.'
Arteta's Cautious Optimism
While Merson made bold claims, manager Mikel Arteta maintained his typically measured approach. However, after the Villa win, the Spaniard admitted his team were 'on the right track' after a great year.
'The way we started the second half was amazing,' Arteta told reporters. 'We really turned things up and were efficient in everything that we did.' He praised his players for adjusting after a shaky opening ten minutes and grabbing control of the game.
The result leaves Arsenal five points clear of second-placed Manchester City as the Premier League enters the New Year, setting the stage for a thrilling title run-in with the Gunners in the driving seat.
