Arsenal will usher in Christmas at the Premier League summit after a narrow 1-0 win against Everton this past Saturday. The Gunners clinched a crucial away victory with an early penalty executed by striker Viktor Gyokeres, whose second goal in his last eleven outings comes amidst injury challenges. Despite this, Arsenal’s strong defense, effectiveness in set pieces, and timely goals have helped them preserve a two-point lead over Manchester City.
However, this lead has dwindled from a six-point cushion just over a month ago, illustrating the tight nature of the title race. A couple of losses can see them challenged, with history looming as Arsenal has finished second in the league for three consecutive seasons. As Mikel Arteta contends with the pressure of leading, his past experiences remind him that staying on top is challenging, especially as they’re aiming for their first Premier League title since the 2003-04 season.
As it stands, Arsenal has demonstrated control over their future, having only allowed ten goals in the league thus far. They’ve scored thirty-one goals but have faced issues with injuries sidelining key players like Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus.
Amid this festive period, most of these crucial players are returning to the squad, augmenting their attack options while asserting dominance in matches. Attention will soon shift to their upcoming showdown against Manchester City on April 18, where the stakes will be monumental.
Meanwhile, Manchester City, once trailing Arsenal by seven points, has bounced back strongly. Now, with 18 points from their last seven matches and a formidable goal tally led by striker Erling Haaland, they are hot on Arsenal’s heels. City’s style of play blends a mix of classic soccer with modern efficiency, despite relying heavily on Haaland, who has scored 19 goals for the team.
Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, could be the surprise contender in this year’s title challenge. Their journey commenced slowly with four matches before tasting victory, but losing only once since then has placed them in a position to challenge the elite. With several injuries impacting their adversaries, Villa must capitalize when they meet Manchester United next, as the result could significantly influence their title aspirations.
Current Premier League Standings
As of Dec. 20
| Pos | Team | GP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arsenal | 17 | 12 | 3 | 2 | 31 | 10 | +21 | 39 |
| 2 | Manchester City | 17 | 12 | 1 | 4 | 41 | 16 | +25 | 37 |
| 3 | Aston Villa | 16 | 10 | 3 | 3 | 25 | 17 | +8 | 33 |
| 4 | Chelsea | 17 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 29 | 17 | +12 | 29 |
| 5 | Liverpool | 17 | 9 | 2 | 6 | 28 | 25 | +3 | 29 |
| 6 | Sunderland | 17 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 19 | 17 | +2 | 27 |
| 7 | Manchester United | 16 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 30 | 26 | +4 | 26 |
| 8 | Crystal Palace | 17 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 21 | 19 | +2 | 26 |
| 9 | Brighton & Hove Albion | 17 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 25 | 23 | +2 | 24 |
| 10 | Everton | 17 | 7 | 3 | 7 | 18 | 20 | -2 | 24 |
