The Premier League champions got a perfect start to the title defence on Monday, when Bukayo Saka netted the game’s second-half winner in a 1-0 win at Villa Park against Villa. Saka’s effort came in the 59th minute after a devious play with Arsenal’s bench. However, with a fantastic pass from Eberechi Eze, the defender was able to cross the ball low and long, and Saka did just that.
Arsenal won a tough win, not a showcase display of skill, as they dominated the match for much of it but weren’t able to get the better of a team at Aston Villa who were keen to find their feet after heading home in the opening game.
The best chance Villa had, came before half-time, when Emi Buendia hit the crossbar after hitting the Arsenal defence. But the hosts were unable to get a clear chance to strengthen after the break and the Arsenal disciplined defending was once again vital.
Arsenal had just considered they won a penalty when VAR overturned the decision just before Saka eventually broke the deadlock.
The trio have given Arsenal a new six points in their first two games and the Gunners have joined Manchester City, Hull City and Chelsea in the top four of the early Premier League table. Meanwhile, Villa are without a point or goal in two games.
Former Villa defender Ezri Konsa and Arsenal’s summer signing Bruno Guimaraes both came off the bench for their first Premier League appearance.
Despite the defeat, Villa boss Unai Emery was pleased with the outcome. The club have been rebuilding since losing some key players this summer. Emery said that the Villa team turned in a good performance against a team that was in favour to win the title.
