Arsenal ended 2025 with a commanding 4-1 victory over title rivals Aston Villa, but the performance was not without controversy, according to club legend Ian Wright.
A Fortunate Escape for Merino
The former Gunners striker believes midfielder Mikel Merino was "very fortunate" to avoid a second yellow card during the match at the Emirates Stadium. Merino, who had been booked in first-half added time, grabbed Villa's Morgan Rogers by the arm and hauled him to the ground midway through the second period.
Referee Darren England opted against showing a second yellow, a decision that Wright feels could have drastically altered the game's momentum. "It was 2-0 at that stage; if Arsenal go down to ten men, it could have had a massive impact on the game," Wright told Premier League Productions.
He added: "Mikel Merino has gotten away with one there because by my account that is two yellows." VAR cannot review potential second yellow card offences, leaving the decision solely with the on-field official.
Arsenal's Emphatic Statement Win
Despite the contentious moment, Arsenal produced a superb second-half display to dismantle one of their closest challengers. The result moved Mikel Arteta's side five points clear at the Premier League summit.
The goals came in a flurry after the break. Gabriel, making his first start since November, bundled home from a corner before Martin Zubimendi neatly finished to double the lead just four minutes later. Further strikes from Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus sealed a comprehensive win.
Ollie Watkins managed a late consolation for Villa in injury time, ending their impressive eight-match winning streak in the league.
Arteta's Delight and Looking Ahead
A jubilant Mikel Arteta praised his team's ability to navigate a difficult challenge. "They are really good, they are extremely well coached," he said of Villa. "It can be uncomfortable navigating through that and we did it in a difficult moment and then we took the opportunities in a great way."
Wright echoed the sentiment, calling the victory a "massive statement" to the rest of the league. He highlighted Arsenal's clinical edge, which has sometimes been lacking this season. "They haven’t been scoring as many goals as they should have but they have been making chances... and if you take them, then you are more comfortable in the game," he noted.
Arsenal will now aim to carry this momentum into 2026, beginning with a trip to face Bournemouth as they chase a fifth consecutive league victory.
