Arsenal Face Setback After Last-Gasp Loss to Aston Villa, But Arteta Confident of Recovery

Premier League leaders Arsenal suffered a dramatic 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa on Saturday, ending their 18-match unbeaten run and opening up the title race. Emiliano Buendia scored the winner with the last kick of the game after Leandro Trossard had equalized following Matty Cash’s first-half opener at Villa Park.

The north Londoners’ rare setback leaves Villa within three points of the top, while Manchester City also had the chance to close the gap later on Saturday. Arsenal’s defeat marked only their second loss of the campaign, the first being at Liverpool in August.

Manager Mikel Arteta remained composed despite the setback, insisting his side can handle the mounting pressure. “We went 18 games unbeaten and still we are there, close to each other,” he said. “Now it is time to bounce back. We will learn from today, and it will make us a better team.”

Arsenal’s defence, already injury-hit, suffered another blow with centre-back Cristhian Mosquera ruled out for weeks due to an ankle injury. Arteta emphasised the challenges ahead, noting the Premier League’s unpredictability and the need to maintain consistency.

Villa boss Unai Emery, meanwhile, hailed his team’s resurgence. After starting the season in the relegation zone, nine wins from their last ten matches have turned Villa into unexpected title contenders. “Arsenal are favourites to win this title,” Emery said, “but we have found balance, and our performances are improving every week.”

With the season more open than ever, Arsenal must quickly regroup if they hope to secure the Premier League crown, while Villa continue to build momentum in their own push up the table.