Aston Villa vs Arsenal: Premier League – BBC Sport

Aston Villa were unable to repeat the punishment they heaped on Arsenal in the Premier League last season and there was an element of self-inflicted wounds as the visitors turned the tables on their former manager Unai Emery.

Villa Park was a formidable, unforgiving environment last season, as both Arsenal and eventual champions Manchester City discovered when they were beaten here, and for a time it looked like Emery’s side would strike another early blow against the elite.

It was two of Villa’s most reliable performers who will be left with the biggest regrets as the pain of this defeat sinks in.

Watkins was Villa’s main marksman with 19 league goals last season, burnishing his reputation as a finisher even further with England’s dramatic late winner in the Euro 2024 semi-final against the Netherlands in Dortmund.

Here, in front of watching England interim manager Lee Carsley, Watkins was as disbelieving as everyone else inside the stadium when he steered a simple first-half chance wide with the goal at his mercy and only Raya to beat.

Watkins suffered again after the break as he was the victim of Raya’s wonder save – but he still should have buried the diving header.

And then it was Martinez, constantly touted as “the world’s number one” by just about everyone at Villa Park, who faltered, fumbling a routine shot from Partey – Arsenal’s fans inevitably revelling in the misfortune of their former keeper.

There was, however, plenty to encourage Villa and Emery and they will be left wondering how they came away empty-handed.

Morgan Rogers gave a performance rich in promise, powerful running and quality but it was all to no avail as Arsenal won in the manner those who chase titles are expected to do.