Arteta hails return of scoring “Gabriels” as Arsenal rout Villa to extend title lead

Summary: Arteta praises Gabriel Magalhães and Gabriel Jesus for goals on their return in a 4–1 win.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was full of praise for the return of two key Brazilian players after his side delivered a commanding 4–1 win over Aston Villa in the Premier League on Tuesday. Both Gabriel Magalhães and Gabriel Jesus, returning from injury, made their presence felt on the scoresheet as Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the table. 

The victory was a statement performance. Villa had been on an 11-match winning streak, but Arsenal’s blend of sharp attacking play and solid defending proved too much on the night. Magalhães, making just his second start since returning from injury, provided the breakthrough with a towering finish from a corner that gave the Gunners the edge early in the second half. 

Arteta highlighted the importance of his influence at both ends of the pitch, saying that coming back from injury and performing against top opposition shows his quality. 

Jesus, himself on the comeback trail after a long layoff with a knee problem, also scored in the match, curling home his effort soon after coming off the bench. Arteta was visibly pleased with how the forward seized the moment, pointing out that scoring after such a lengthy absence is no small feat. 

The win not only kept Arsenal ahead in the Premier League title race but also underscored how critical returning players can be in what promises to be a tightly contested campaign. Missing midfielder Declan Rice was one setback, but the goals from both Gabriels gave Arteta plenty to smile about as the team heads into the new year.