Saka's Goal Gives Arsenal Win Over Villa as Arteta Celebrates 250th Game

Bukayo Saka scored the only goal as Arsenal defeated Aston Villa 1-0 on Monday. This victory marked a winning celebration for manager Mikel Arteta in his 250th Premier League game.

With this win, Arsenal has two victories from two league matches in the 2026/27 season. Villa, on the other hand, is still looking for their first point after losing both of their matches.

Villa had a rough start, suffering a 4-0 loss to Brighton in their first league match. They started off well against Arsenal, despite missing some key players recently.

The home team almost scored first in the 12th minute. Emiliano Buendia’s long shot hit the crossbar.

Arsenal struggled to find clear chances in the first half. Declan Rice came close from a corner, but Villa's new goalkeeper Zion Suzuki tipped his header over the bar.

Although Arsenal had more possession, they did not manage a shot on target before half-time. Villa striker Nicolas Jackson found it hard to get involved in the attack.

At half-time, Arteta brought in Eberechi Eze for Christos Tzolis to boost Arsenal's attack.

Villa had the first chance after the break. Ian Maatsen shot over from a tight angle.

Things got controversial when referee Jarred Gillett gave Arsenal a penalty after Maatsen fouled Saka in the box. A VAR check showed the foul was outside the box, so Arsenal got a free-kick. Martin Odegaard's shot went just wide.

Arsenal finally scored in the 59th minute. Riccardo Calafiori sprinted past the Villa defense and sent a low cross into the box. Saka pushed the ball over the line.

This was Saka’s second goal in two Premier League matches this season.

Villa had to push forward to find an equaliser, which created more space for Arsenal. Suzuki, the first Japanese goalkeeper in the Premier League, made a great one-on-one save against Kai Havertz to keep Villa in the game.

Bruno Guimaraes came off the bench and made his Premier League debut for Arsenal. Ezri Konsa also played against his former club after coming on for Cristhian Mosquera.

Arsenal held on to win, keeping their perfect start to the season alive and giving Arteta a win in his 250th Premier League match as manager.

This victory also continues Arsenal's strong away record. They have won their opening away league match for the last five seasons.

For Villa, this loss means they are still struggling this season. Unai Emery's team has not recorded a shot on target in the Premier League yet.