Star with 100% Dribble Success Shines as Arsenal Crush Aston Villa 4-1

In a dominant 4-1 victory over Premier League title rivals Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium on December 30, 2025, Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the table to five points. The Gunners delivered a statement performance to end the year, scoring all four goals in a rampant second half after a goalless first period.[1][2]

Aston Villa struck first in the fourth minute of added time at the end of the first half, with Ollie Watkins capitalizing on a defensive lapse to give the visitors a shock lead. However, Arsenal responded ferociously after the break. Defender Gabriel equalized in the 48th minute, rising highest to head home from a corner after outmuscling Emiliano Martinez.[1][2][3]

Midfielder Martin Zubimendi, the article's standout star, shone brightest with a 100% dribble success rate. The Spaniard, put through brilliantly by Ethan Nwaneri (or Odegaard per some accounts), slotted home Arsenal's second in the 52nd minute, delighting the Emirates crowd with his composure and skill.[1][2][3]

Leandro Trossard extended the lead to 3-0 in the 61st minute, sweeping home a loose ball after a Villa error. Substitute Gabriel Jesus capped the rout in the 73rd minute, scoring his first goal in almost a year with a clinical finish off the bench, making it 4-0.[1][2][3]

Watkins' late consolation for Villa in the 77th minute did little to dampen Arsenal's joy in a chaotic second half filled with goals and drama. The win moves Arsenal to 45 points from 19 games (14 wins, 3 draws, 2 losses), ahead of Manchester City on 40 and Villa on 39.[1]

Zubimendi's flawless dribbling and goal-scoring prowess highlighted Arsenal's midfield dominance, underscoring their title credentials in this top-of-the-table clash.[1][2][3]

(Word count: 298)