The Premier League returns with a bang this weekend, as third-placed Aston Villa host league leaders Arsenal at Villa Park on Saturday. Both teams have been in superb form this season, but only one can claim the bragging rights in this mouth-watering encounter.
Aston Villa: The surprise package of the season
Aston Villa have been the revelation of the 2023/24 campaign, as they have defied all expectations and emerged as genuine contenders for the top four. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, who replaced Dean Smith in the summer, the Villans have played some attractive and effective football, scoring 38 goals and conceding only 19 in 23 games.
Emery has managed to get the best out of his star players, such as Ollie Watkins, Douglas Luiz, while also integrating some shrewd signings, such as Diego Carlos, Lucas Digne, and Bertrand Traore. The former Arsenal boss has also instilled a winning mentality and a defensive solidity in his team, as they have won 14 games and kept 10 clean sheets so far.
However, Villa’s impressive run came to a halt in their last game, as they were thrashed 4-1 by Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Emery will be keen to bounce back from that setback and prove that his side can compete with the best in the league. A win over his former club would certainly boost his credentials and his confidence.
Arsenal: The young guns aiming for glory
Arsenal have been the team to beat this season, as they have stormed to the top of the table with 18 wins, three draws, and two losses. The Gunners have been a joy to watch, as they have combined flair, creativity, and intensity in their play, scoring 51 goals and conceding only 15 in 23 games.
Mikel Arteta has done a remarkable job in transforming Arsenal’s fortunes, as he has built a team around some exciting young talents, such as Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Emile Smith Rowe. The Spaniard has also made some astute additions to his squad, such as Oleksandr Zinchenko, Jorginho, and Gabriel Jesus, who have added quality and depth to his options.
However, Arsenal have also shown some signs of vulnerability in recent weeks, as they have dropped points against Everton, Nottingham Forest, and Manchester City. Arteta will be aware that his side cannot afford to slip up in the title race, as they are only ahead of City on goal difference. A win over Villa would send them back to the summit and restore their momentum.
Prediction: A thrilling draw on the cards
This game promises to be a high-octane affair, as both teams have plenty of firepower and ambition. Villa will be eager to make a statement and close the gap on the top two, while Arsenal will be determined to maintain their lead and silence their critics. Both sides have also shown some defensive frailties, which could lead to a goal-fest.
We predict a 2-2 draw, as both teams will cancel each other out in a thrilling contest. Saka and Martinelli will score for Arsenal, while Watkins and Coutinho will find the net for Villa. The result will leave both managers satisfied, but also hungry for more.
