Bukayo Saka scored the decisive goal as Premier League champions Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park, maintaining their perfect start to the new campaign.
The England international struck in the 59th minute, finishing from close range after a well-worked move involving Eberechi Eze and Riccardo Calafiori. Saka’s goal proved enough to settle a tightly contested encounter in which clear-cut opportunities were limited.
Aston Villa had the best chance of the first half when Emiliano Buendia’s long-range effort crashed against the crossbar. Arsenal also had a penalty awarded after Ian Maatsen brought down Saka, but the decision was overturned following a VAR review, with the foul determined to have occurred outside the penalty area.
Arsenal gradually took control of possession and created further opportunities after the break. Kai Havertz tested Villa debutant goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, while the hosts struggled to threaten David Raya’s goal and failed to register a shot on target.
The victory gives Mikel Arteta’s side six points from their opening two matches, with Arsenal yet to concede a goal. The result also marked a positive milestone for Arteta, who recorded his 151st league victory in his 250th match in charge of the Gunners.
Villa, meanwhile, remain without a point after suffering consecutive defeats. Unai Emery’s side are undergoing a major rebuild following a summer of significant departures, but their performance against the defending champions showed signs of improvement after their opening-day defeat to Brighton.
Arsenal will now turn their attention to a home clash with Chelsea, while Villa will look to respond in their next league fixture.
