Introduction: Title Tensions Heat Up

The Premier League title race takes a thrilling turn as Arsenal host Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 8:15 pm (20:15 GMT). Aston Villa, enjoying an 11-match winning streak across all competitions, could draw level with Arsenal at the top of the table with a victory.

Fans can follow live updates from Al Jazeera Sport starting at 17:00 GMT, ahead of full text commentary.

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Aston Villa’s Meteoric Rise

Despite a slow start, failing to win any of their first six matches, Aston Villa’s resurgence under Unai Emery has transformed them into genuine title contenders. The Villains have now won eight consecutive Premier League games and 11 matches in all competitions, marking their longest winning streak since 1914.

Emery, who was previously sacked by Arsenal in 2019, returns to London with a chance to impact his former club’s title hopes. The Spaniard has revitalized Villa, transforming them from relegation battlers to title challengers, and has consistently produced impressive tactical adjustments in key games.

Ollie Watkins has been a standout performer, scoring a brace against Chelsea in the latest match, praising Emery’s mid-game substitutions as “tactical genius.”

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Arsenal’s Current Form and Injury News

Arsenal, who led the league early this season, have experienced a dip in form, recently losing 2-1 to Villa in Birmingham. However, they reclaimed top spot after a hard-fought 2-1 home victory against Brighton, showcasing resilience and tactical flexibility.

Key updates:

• Declan Rice excelled as an emergency right-back against Brighton, demonstrating Arsenal’s squad versatility.
• Jurrien Timber and Ben White remain doubts; Rice could continue at full-back if Timber is unavailable.
• Gabriel Magalhaes has recovered from an adductor injury and may start for the first time since November.
• Riccardo Calafiori remains a major doubt, replaced in recent games by Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Predicted Arsenal lineup: Raya (GK); Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Gyokeres, Eze

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Aston Villa Team News

Aston Villa will miss Matty Cash and Boubacar Kamara due to suspensions. Injuries continue to plague the squad, with Tyrone Mings, Pau Torres, and Ross Barkley sidelined. Evann Guessand is away at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Predicted Aston Villa lineup: Martinez (GK); Bogarde, Konsa, Lindelof, Maatsen; Onana, Tielemans; McGinn, Buendia, Rogers; Watkins

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Tactical Preview: Emery vs Arteta

Unai Emery’s track record against Arsenal is impressive, with only two losses in 10 encounters during his spells at PSG, Villarreal, and Villa. Villa’s tactical flexibility, high pressing, and recent scoring form pose a significant challenge to the Gunners’ defensive setup.

Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta relies on disciplined defensive organization, while emphasizing versatility, as seen with Rice’s adaptability. The clash is expected to be fast-paced, with both sides capable of decisive counter-attacks.

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Head-to-Head Statistics

• Arsenal and Aston Villa have met 206 times historically: Arsenal with 88 wins, Villa with 72, and 46 draws.
• In recent Premier League encounters, Arsenal have lost three of their last five matches against Villa, while Villa earned four points from their last two trips to the Emirates.
• Arsenal have won nine of their last ten home league matches, while Villa remain strong on the road, making this fixture highly competitive.

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Conclusion: A Pivotal Premier League Clash

Tuesday’s Arsenal vs Aston Villa encounter is not just another fixture; it could have title-deciding implications. Villa’s unbeaten streak and Emery’s tactical expertise make them dangerous opponents, while Arsenal’s resilience and squad depth provide confidence.

Fans should expect a match defined by strategic adjustments, key individual performances, and the high stakes of a tight Premier League title race.