Mikel Arteta disagrees with Unai Emery title claim after Arsenal defeat to Aston Villa

Mikel Arteta insists Aston Villa are Premier League title contenders this season, despite Unai Emery playing down his side’s chances after their 2-1 win against Arsenal on Saturday.

Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League has been cut to two points after their defeat at Villa Park as Manchester City went on to beat Sunderland 3-0 at the Etihad Stadium.

Villa, meanwhile, are three points behind Arsenal in third following an impressive run of nine wins in 10 Premier League games.

Asked if Villa could challenge for the title this season following the win against Arsenal, Emery said: ‘I am not thinking in it. I know 38 matches is very difficult, we are not a contender.

‘If we were in day 35, perhaps we can speak differently. Arsenal are the best team in the Premier League until now. How we competed today gives me lots of confidence.

‘We are really being consistent, and through it we achieve points. How we are now, I am so proud of how we are, taking the challenges we give them.

‘The reality is that we have to face difficulties, and our target in 38 matches, we will see it. Now we feel good and strong in the position we are.

‘The message is game by game in each competition. We play against Basel on Thursday. I want to enjoy the way, each moment. Today we won and we are happy. We are going to rest now for two days. Be with family and friends.’

However, Arteta insists Emery’s side are contenders for the title after extending their excellent run of form this weekend.

‘They are,’ Arteta said when asked if Villa can challenge.

‘When you look at where they are, the way they play, they have beaten some big teams, especially at home. Everybody is going to have to play everybody, so at the moment they are where they are and we are there as well.’

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