Aston Villa vs Arsenal Preview

• Draw or Arsenal win
• Havertz to score or assist

Aston Villa’s Strong Start to the Season

Aston Villa kicked off their 2024/25 Premier League campaign in thrilling fashion, securing a 2-1 victory away to West Ham, thanks to a late winner from substitute Jhon Durán.

The young Colombian, who was once linked with a move to West Ham, instead became the hero for Unai Emery’s side, helping them make the perfect start to the season.

Villa will now aim to continue their winning momentum as they seek to secure three consecutive league victories against Arsenal, a feat they have achieved only twice before—in November 1993 and February 2021.

Villa’s home form has been formidable, with the team losing just three of their last 26 league outings at Villa Park (W19, D4).

This strong home record, coupled with their ability to score 2+ goals in each of their last five home matches, positions them well to challenge Arsenal.

However, Villa’s defence has shown some vulnerability, conceding nine goals across their last four matches at Villa Park, which could be a concern against a high-powered Arsenal attack.

Arsenal’s Quest for the Title

Arsenal began their season with a comfortable 2-0 win over Wolves at the Emirates Stadium, with goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka.

Mikel Arteta’s men are determined to mount a serious title challenge this season, aiming to win the Premier League for the first time since 2003/04. The Gunners’ opening day victory sets the tone for their campaign as they look to build on last season’s impressive performances.

Arsenal comes into this match unbeaten in their last nine away league outings (W8, D1), a run of form that has been underpinned by a rock-solid defence.

Seven of those matches saw the Gunners keep a clean sheet, contributing to their league-leading tally of 11 clean sheets on the road last season. This defensive resilience will be crucial as they face a Villa side capable of finding the back of the net with regularity.

Key Players to Watch

Jhon Durán (Aston Villa): Durán, who scored the winner in Villa’s season opener, has been a revelation, currently averaging a goal every 103 minutes of league action.

This remarkable scoring rate is second only to Erling Haaland in Premier League history among players with 5+ goals. Durán’s knack for finding the net could prove vital as Villa looks to extend their winning streak.

Kai Havertz (Arsenal): Havertz started the season in fine form, contributing a goal and an assist in Arsenal’s opening day win.

His recent performances have been impressive, with eight goal contributions in his last six Premier League outings (G5, A3). Havertz will be a key player for Arsenal as they aim to exploit any defensive lapses from Villa.

Conclusion

Aston Villa and Arsenal both come into this match with winning momentum, setting the stage for an exciting clash at Villa Park.

Villa’s strong home form and potent attack will be tested by Arsenal’s defensive solidity and title ambitions.

With key players like Jhon Durán and Kai Havertz in the spotlight, this match promises to be a closely contested battle as both teams aim to continue their perfect start to the season.

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Aston Villa v Arsenal, 2024/25 | Premier League