Jamie Redknapp Claims Arsenal Given Major Boost After Aston Villa Slip Up vs Everton

Jamie Redknapp believes Arsenal received a major title boost after Aston Villa’s shock defeat to Everton left Arteta’s side seven points clear.

Jamie Redknapp claimed Arsenal received a major boost in the title race after Aston Villa suffered a surprise 1–0 defeat to Everton on Sunday night. The result keeps Mikel Arteta’s seven-point lead at the summit.

Villa’s setback prevented Arsenal’s closest challengers from applying pressure at a crucial stage of the season, allowing the league leaders to strengthen their hold on top spot.

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Aston Villa went into the clash knowing victory would significantly tighten the title race, especially after Manchester City dropped points earlier in the weekend. Instead, Everton stunned Villa Park, with Thierno Barry’s composed second-half finish sealing all three points for David Moyes’ side.

The loss not only halted Villa’s strong home form but also ensured Arsenal retained a commanding advantage at the top of the table — a scenario Redknapp believes will have been warmly welcomed in north London.

Jamie Redknapp: “Villa blew a huge opportunity on Arsenal”

Speaking on Sky Sports, Redknapp was blunt in his assessment of Unai Emery’s side, insisting they failed to capitalise on a golden chance to close the gap on Arsenal.

“They’ve blown an incredible opportunity to put real pressure on Arsenal,” Redknapp said.
“They didn’t have the capabilities in any area today and the players who normally bail them out just weren’t at their best.”

Redknapp highlighted how early setbacks, including the injury to John McGinn, disrupted Villa’s rhythm, while Everton’s disciplined setup prevented them from playing through midfield — an approach that ultimately paid off.

From an Arsenal perspective, the result could hardly have been more favourable. With Villa and Manchester City both dropping points, Arteta’s side remain firmly in control of the title race as the season moves beyond its midpoint.

Had Villa claimed victory, they would have closed the gap to four points. Instead, Arsenal maintain a seven-point cushion, giving them valuable breathing space as fixtures begin to pile up across competitions.

While critical of Villa, Redknapp was full of praise for Everton and their manager.

“You have to credit David Moyes. He knows exactly how to set a team up to be difficult to beat,” he added.
“They blocked the middle, forced Villa wide and waited for their moment. It’s their best performance of the season.”

Everton’s tactical discipline and patience ultimately proved decisive, with Barry’s calm finish punishing Villa’s lack of cutting edge.

Arsenal advantage grows as pressure mounts on chasers

Villa have now dropped points in three of their last four league matches, a run that has allowed Arsenal to consolidate their position at the top. Manchester City sit second on goal difference, level on points with Villa, but neither has managed to build sustained momentum.

For Arteta and his players, this latest stumble from a rival reinforces Arsenal’s growing advantage — but the manager will know consistency remains key with plenty of football still to be played.

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