The match was evenly balanced by halftime, but Mikel Arteta’s squad shifted into high gear after the break, unraveling Villa’s defenses and reaffirming their status as serious title contenders.

The deadlock was broken just three minutes into the second half when Gabriel Magalhaes, returning to the starting lineup after an injury, capitalized on a well-orchestrated corner to score from close range. Despite objections from Villa regarding a possible foul on Emiliano Martinez, the goal was allowed.

Second-half surge breaks Villa resistance

Arsenal swiftly took charge. Martin Odegaard’s intense pressing in the midfield set up the second goal, as he assisted Martin Zubimendi, who skillfully slotted the ball past Martinez, extending the lead and putting the game firmly in the home side’s grasp.

Arsenal quickly seized control. Martin Odegaard’s aggressive press in midfield led to the second goal as he teed up Martin Zubimendi, who calmly poked past Martinez to double the advantage and tilt the game decisively in the hosts’ favour.

Goals flow as Arsenal take control

Leandro Trossard made it 3-0 with a precise low finish from the edge of the area, after a lengthy VAR check confirmed he was onside.

Substitute Gabriel Jesus then added further gloss with a curling strike late on, before Ollie Watkins bundled in a stoppage-time consolation for Villa.

Unai Emery’s side, who arrived on an 11-game winning run and had beaten Arsenal earlier in the month, showed early intent but ultimately lacked the cutting edge to trouble a composed and clinical home side.

The victory caps an outstanding year for Arsenal, who have lost just twice in the league and now sit five points clear ahead of second-placed Manchester City who although, have a game in hand.