Martin Ødegaard's Influence Shines as Arsenal Beat Aston Villa 4-1 to Maintain Premier League Lead
Arsenal secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Aston Villa, maintaining their position at the top of the Premier League with a five-point lead over Manchester City before the New Year's Day fixtures.
Martin Ødegaard played a pivotal role in the win, intercepting a Villa pass and setting up Martín Zubimendi for Arsenal's second goal. Since joining in the summer, Zubimendi has achieved a combined total of five goals and assists, marking his joint-best return in his club career.
Ødegaard's influence extended further as he contributed to Leandro Trossard's third goal by delivering a decisive cross after Villa failed to clear the ball. He finished the match with the highest number of touches and shots for Arsenal.
Having previously been sidelined with two shoulder injuries and a knee injury, Ødegaard scored his first Premier League goal of the season against Brighton the prior Saturday. His energy and form have since returned, with manager Mikel Arteta praising Ødegaard's teammates for facilitating his impact. Arteta described Ødegaard as "flowing," taking risks, and significantly influencing the game once again.
Aston Villa’s Viktor Gyökeres struggled in the first half, registering only five touches and few chances before being substituted. Gabriel Jesus, returning to the lineup after a long injury layoff, replaced him and scored with his very first touch. Kai Havertz was also on the bench as Arsenal balance their options alongside Eberechi Eze, the club’s £67.5 million signing who has seen a reduced role since Ødegaard's return.
Declan Rice was absent for the Villa match but is expected to return in the upcoming game against Bournemouth. Arsenal now benefit from having both their captain and Ødegaard back in the squad.
