When Arsenal announced their starting eleven, it was clear that midfielder Declan Rice was missing. The Englishman, who played the entire game in the weekend's 2-1 win over Brighton, was not even in the match squad.
It is still unclear why he was absent.
Viktor Gyökeres was given a start for Arsenal, while Victor Nilsson Lindelöf received the same in Aston Villa's back line.
After just over five minutes, the Swedes found themselves in a duel. Nilsson Lindelöf misjudged a cross and Gyökeres ran in and headed from close range, but the ball sailed just over the crossbar.
After a 0-0 draw at half-time, Arsenal upped the tempo in the second half and poured forward. Within half an hour, they scored four goals.
Gabriel headed in to make it 1–0, Martin Zubimendi made it 2–0, Leandro Trossard made it 3–0 and Gabriel Jesus sealed a 4–0 lead in the 78th minute.
Ollie Watkins reduced for Aston Villa in stoppage time.
Arsenal top the table with 45 points, with Manchester City five points behind and having played one game fewer.
