Arsenal’s title defence has begun with two wins. Bukayo Saka provided the decisive moment on Monday. A 1-0 victory was secured at Aston Villa.
The result was earned the hard way. Arsenal were made to work for every opening. But the champions stayed patient and held firm.
Saka Delivers Again
The winning goal was scored in the second half. Saka finished from close range after a flowing move. The goal gave Arsenal their second league win. It also ended a difficult visit to Villa Park.
Mikel Arteta was pleased with the result. He said the win had been earned against a strong Villa side.
“Really happy, it’s a massive win,” Arteta said. “It’s a tough place to come and earn three points.”
The manager also praised his substitutes. Their impact was seen late in the game.
“With 11, it wasn’t enough,” he said. “The finishers came in and did a magnificent job.”
Champions Hold Firm
Arsenal were forced to defend for long spells. Villa struggled to create a clear opening, though. The visitors eventually kept a clean sheet. It was another sign of their defensive strength.
Arteta knows such wins may prove important. The Premier League title is rarely won with style alone.
“Last year was the same,” he said. “We know how difficult it is to earn points in this league.”
Arsenal had also lost at Villa Park last season. That defeat was still remembered by Arteta.
“That was still in the tummy,” he said.
Chelsea Test Awaits
Arsenal are among four sides with perfect starts. Manchester City, Chelsea and Hull City have also won twice. A bigger test will arrive on Sunday. Chelsea will visit the Emirates Stadium. Both sides will enter with six points. The early title race could gain shape from the meeting.
Arsenal may also add to their squad. Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez has been linked with a move. The transfer window closes on Tuesday. Arteta said his focus remained on the pitch.
“I disconnected for a day,” he said. “My focus had to be on the game.”
Saka Finds His Rhythm
Saka has now scored in both league games. His start comes after an injury-hit end to last season. The England winger said the Villa challenge had been demanding. He was pleased with the way Arsenal adapted.
“It’s not easy coming here,” Saka said. “They made it hard for us.”
Villa’s high defensive line caused problems. Arsenal were caught offside several times. The visitors eventually found their opening. Saka made sure it was enough.
“One goal is normally enough for us,” he said. “We are so solid at the back.”
The clean sheet completed the job. Arsenal left Villa Park with three points and growing confidence.
About the Author
