Arsenal’s already slim chances of winning the Premier League took another hit as they drew 2-2 with Aston Villa
A minor injury to William Saliba saw Jurrien Timber shift across to centre-back, with Thomas Partey moving to right-back. Mikel Merino returned to the midfield and Gabriel Martinelli replaced Raheem Sterling on the right of Arsenal’s attack.
Just like they did against Spurs, Arsenal started brightly. Martinelli would have the games best chance in the early stages, as a deep cross to the back post saw him connect with the ball at full stretch but the Vrazlian couldn’t generate enough power to properly trouble Martinez.
Despite Arsenal dominating opening period, Villa would force a good save out of David Raya with a powerful strike from Ian Maatsen. However, Arsenal would be rewarded for their dominance and control as a Leandro Trossard delivery was met by Martinelli who’s effort just went over the line despite Martinez’s efforts to give Mikel Arteta’s side a deserved lead late on in the first half.
And that lead would be doubled only a few minutes in the second half as another Trossard cross was met by an Arsenal player, this time it was Kai Havertz who volleyed home to put Arsenal in a commanding position at 2-0.
However, Youri Tielemans would soon reduce the deficit out of nothing, a low diving header was smashed into the net to give Unai Emery’s team hope. The Belgian was inches away from levelling the contest just minutes after, striking the post with a first-time effort from the edge of the box.
The warning signs were there, and Gunners fears would be realised when not too soon later, Partey would lose Ollie Watkins at the back post, leaving the English striker with enough time and space to equalise and turn the game on its head.
There would be one last bit of drama, as late on in the 90 a shot from Merino deflected off Havertz and in, looking to have won the game for Arsenal. However, VAR checked the goal and ruled it out due to an unfortunate handball by the German.
The points were dropped in a frustrating afternoon for Mikel Arteta, who will have just another three days to prepare for his team&/ next fixture as Champions League football returns with a game vs Dinamo Zagreb.
Player Ratings:
David Raya: 6
Thomas Partey: 4
Jurrien Timber: 6
Gabriel: 7
Myles Lewis-Skelly: 7
Declan Rice: 7
Mikel Merino: 6
Martin Odegaard: 6
Gabriel Martinelli: 7
Kai Havertz: 7
Leandro Trossard: 8