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Aston Villa v Arsenal live
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Aston Villa host Arsenal at Villa Park on Monday, August 31, 8pm BST. Arsenal can go top with a two-goal win; Villa could drop to bottom.
Background
This is the final game of Premier League Matchday 2. Arsenal, the reigning champions, started with a 3-0 win over Coventry, while Aston Villa lost 4-0 to Brighton and sit bottom. Villa have made several new signings and are without suspended João Gomes, while Arsenal are unchanged.
How it unfolded
- Aug 27, 2026NBC Sports preview notes Arsenal's confidence after opening win and Villa's struggles after heavy defeat.
- Aug 30, 2026Arsenal.com preview highlights Ezri Konsa's transfer between the clubs and Villa's home record.
- Aug 31, 2026Matchday: Aston Villa host Arsenal at Villa Park, kick-off 8pm BST. Villa make two changes, including debutants Suzuki and Jackson.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says his team are ambitious and want to be dominant, while Villa boss Unai Emery acknowledges the challenge but remains positive.
- Analysts
- NBC Sports predicts a closer game than expected but an Arsenal win, 0-2.
- Bulls
- Arsenal have won 15 times at Villa Park in the Premier League era, more than at any other away venue.
- Bears
- Villa have won four of their last seven home games against Arsenal and their last three home fixtures against the reigning champions.