Arteta hails Arsenal’s ‘finishers’ after Saka settles Villa test

Arsenal needed one close-range finish from Bukayo Saka to settle a demanding night at Villa Park, but Mikel Arteta saw more than a narrow scoreline. He said the champions showed the kind of resilience they will need to defend their title.

Saka struck in the second half to give Arsenal a 1-0 victory over Aston Villa, securing consecutive wins at the start of the season. Arteta said the result carried extra weight because Arsenal had lost at the same venue last season.

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Really happy, it’s a massive win. It’s a tough place to come and earn three points. I think we deserved it.

“Really happy, it’s a massive win. It’s a tough place to come and earn three points. I think we deserved it,” Arteta said. He praised the contribution of the substitutes, adding, “With 11, it wasn’t enough, the finishers came in and did a magnificent job to finish the game and win it.”

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With 11, it wasn’t enough, the finishers came in and did a magnificent job to finish the game and win it.

Arsenal are one of four teams to win their opening two league games, alongside Manchester City, Chelsea and Hull. Their next match, at home to Chelsea on Sunday, will offer an early test of both teams’ title claims.

Saka has scored in both matches as he returns from an injury-hit end to last season. He said Villa’s compact defense and high line forced Arsenal to adjust, while the team’s defensive strength meant one goal could be enough. Arsenal could also add players before the transfer window closes, with Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez linked to the club. Arteta said he had left transfer business to the club’s staff so he could focus on the match.

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It’s not easy coming here, they made it hard for us. It feels even better to come out with the win.