Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta described his side's 1-0 victory at Aston Villa's Villa Park as a "massive win," revealing that the memory of last season's defeat at the same ground had driven the team's determination throughout the match.

Bukayo Saka settled the contest in the 59th minute, converting from close range after receiving a cutback from Riccardo Calafiori. Arsenal's defensive discipline was equally impressive — Unai Emery's side failed to register a single shot on target across the entire 90 minutes.

Bench impact seals the result

Speaking to Sky Sport after the final whistle, Arteta singled out the contributions of his substitutes — including Eberechi Eze — for helping Arsenal see out a hard-fought three points in hostile territory.