The Gunners New Year Resolution Why 2026 Could Be the Year Arsenal Ends the Wait

Arsenal finished the year with a massive statement victory at the Emirates. They dismantled Aston Villa 4-1 on Tuesday night to close out 2025. This win ends Villa's incredible 11 game winning streak in emphatic fashion.

Mikel Arteta’s side now sits five points clear at the top of the table. With 45 points from 19 games, the Gunners are officially the Winter Champions. Manchester City trails in second, while Villa drops to third place.

The Second Half Goal Blitz

The first half was a tense affair with few clear cut chances for either side. But everything changed in a frantic four minute window after the break. Gabriel Magalhaes, returning from injury, bundled home the opening goal in the 47th minute.

Shortly after, Martin Zubimendi scored his first goal for the club. He finished a brilliant through-ball from Martin Odegaard to double the lead. The Emirates erupted as the clinical nature of the performance became clear.

Clinical Finishing and Tactical Dominance

Leandro Trossard added a third with a superb finish from the edge of the box. Gabriel Jesus then capped off the night with his first goal in nearly a year. His strike just minutes after coming off the bench felt like a huge weight lifted.

Aston Villa managed a late consolation goal through Ollie Watkins. However, it did nothing to dampen the spirits of the home supporters. Arsenal dominated with 19 shots, showing the "ruthless" edge Arteta has demanded.

Injury Updates and Transfer Rumors

The only negative for Arsenal was the absence of Declan Rice due to a knee issue. Arteta is hopeful the swelling goes down before the trip to Bournemouth. The squad depth will be tested as the 2026 schedule begins to ramp up.

With the January window opening tomorrow, transfer talk is heating up. Rumors suggest Arsenal is looking at defensive cover for Ben White and Jurrien Timber. Names like Antoine Semenyo and Jeremy Jacquet are being mentioned in circles.

The Road Ahead in 2026

Arsenal faces Bournemouth on January 3rd to kick off the new year. Then, a massive home game against Liverpool follows on January 9th. These fixtures will decide if Arsenal can maintain their five point cushion.

The belief in North London is higher than it has been in two decades. If they maintain this defensive record, the 21 year wait