Martin Keown Names Aston Villa as Real Title Threat to Challenge Arsenal

Why Aston Villa title challenge now feels real in the Premier League race

Arsenal legend Martin Keown has thrown his weight behind Aston Villa title challenge, praising Unai Emery’s side as a genuine force in the Premier League race. The former Gunners defender rejected any suggestion of luck, stressing that Villa’s rise is built on substance and warning that their consistency now threatens the dominance of Arsenal and Manchester City, as quoted by Metro.

Keown argued that Villa are no longer outsiders, saying their surge “has everything to do with their manager.” He praised Emery’s ability to control games, motivate his squad and maintain intensity against top teams. As a result, Villa’s confidence keeps rising after a run of strong performances that pushed them within touching distance of the league leaders.

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According to Keown, Emery has “kept it going with that core group of players,” turning Villa Park into one of the league’s toughest away grounds. The Gunners legend applauded the Spaniard’s tactical discipline, adding that Villa’s stability proves they can compete with England’s elite.

Villa’s Strong Form Sends a Warning

Villa’s seven straight wins across competitions have completely changed the tone of the title race. Although their season started slowly due to financial restrictions and squad fatigue, Emery rebuilt momentum quickly. Consequently, the club now sits firmly in the top three and refuses to let Arsenal or Manchester City pull away.

Even after impressive victories, Emery remains calm. He prefers to keep expectations measured, explaining that his players “must keep improving” if they want to stay in the race. His grounded leadership has helped Villa maintain focus week after week.

Arsenal’s 2–1 loss to Villa earlier this week tightened the title race significantly. Mikel Arteta’s side still sits top, but they have dropped points in three of their last five matches. This shift has opened the door for City and Villa, who both continue to apply pressure.

Manchester City reminded everyone of their strength with a dominant win over Sunderland. Still, it’s Villa’s recent consistency—especially against big opponents—that has caught the attention of pundits like Keown.

Before Arsenal’s next match, Arteta admitted that Villa “have beaten some big teams” and “are where they deserve to be.” Even he recognises Villa as a serious challenger.

A Three-Horse Race Comes to Life

Keown’s endorsement adds intensity to a title race that once looked like a straight shoot-out between Arsenal and Manchester City. Villa’s energy, pressing style and tactical clarity now present a real threat.

However, they must manage the festive period, avoid fatigue, and stay sharp before the January window. Many past title hopefuls faltered during this stretch, yet Villa appear ready for the challenge.

Keown concluded that Emery doesn’t “want too much pressure” on his team, but the job he has completed “is quite remarkable.” With Arsenal and City inconsistent at times, Villa’s rise could be the surprise storyline of the season.

As the campaign continues, one thing is certain: Aston Villa are no longer knocking politely. They are forcing the door open—and the Premier League might be heading toward a historic three-team battle.

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