Do You Agree? Emery Explains Why Villa Lost to Arsenal, Ending 11-Match Winning Streak (Video) "
On 31 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Unai Emery, Aston Villa’s head coach, spoke after the 19th match of the 2025-26 English Premier League season, in which his team unexpectedly lost 1-4 away to league leaders Arsenal.
The first half ended 0-0, but in the second half Arsenal scored four goals in quick succession: Gabriel Magalhães at 48 minutes, Martín Zubimendi at 52 minutes, Leandro Trossard at 69 minutes, and Gabriel Jesus at 78 minutes. Aston Villa scored a consolation goal by Ollie Watkins in the fourth minute of injury time (90+4).
This defeat ended Aston Villa’s 11-match winning streak across all competitions and their 8-game winning streak in the Premier League. They remain in 3rd place with 39 points but are now 6 points behind Arsenal.
Unai Emery said Arsenal’s opening goal at 1-0 was the key turning point. He felt Gabriel Magalhães likely fouled Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez during the header that led to the goal. Additionally, losing defensive midfielder Amadou Onana to injury and substitution at halftime was a major blow.
The Aston Villa coach said, "I am very happy with the players, and of course, we have to analyze this game. But overall, we are satisfied with the points we have earned after 19 matches and our performance this week."
"Today we played very well in the first half, unlike the game against Chelsea. We fought hard, created momentum, and generated chances. We did not concede any goals or allow any corners in the first half."
"But in the second half, the first goal changed everything. After that, they stepped up their game. We also suffered the injury to Amadou Onana, which cost us in midfield. They showed great energy as they demonstrated, and ultimately, we lost."
"Now, with the players, my analysis after the game is about how we played over 90 minutes. But overall, the most important thing is trying to understand who we are."
"The first goal they scored was probably a foul. But in England, it is harder because referees allow contact with the goalkeeper, which is difficult. We have to accept it because it happens on both sides."
Regarding the end of Aston Villa’s 11-match winning streak, Unai Emery said, "Football is about the present. Football is what we are now. Everything we have done is excellent. We have achieved what we wanted. We might have hoped for more because we are third in the league and competing in the Europa League, which is very good. But we must analyze today’s game and the players we have."
