Arsenal defender Gabriel has revealed that memories of Aston Villa's exuberant celebrations earlier in the month provided the perfect motivation for the Gunners' emphatic 4-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
Revenge Served Cold at the Emirates
The result, a stark reversal of Villa's dramatic last-gasp win at Villa Park on December 6, sent Mikel Arteta's side five points clear at the Premier League summit. Gabriel, who marked his return to the starting line-up with a goal, admitted the nature of Villa's previous triumph – sealed by an injury-time winner from Emi Buendia – had lingered in the minds of the Arsenal squad.
"Those sort of things spur you on," Gabriel stated after the match. He referenced the wild scenes from the first fixture, where Villa players celebrated passionately on the pitch and continued their jubilation in the tunnel, while dejected Arsenal stars sank to the turf.
Gabriel Mocks Onana's 'Pocket' Celebration
The Brazilian centre-back also couldn't resist a playful dig at Villa midfielder Amadou Onana, known for his trademark 'pocket' celebration where he places his hand inside his coat. In footage posted on Arsenal's official social media channels, Gabriel was seen mimicking the gesture before zipping up an imaginary pocket.
"It's good fun. It's fun for them, it's fun for us as well," Gabriel explained, keen to downplay any malice. "It was not to get them back or to get Onana back. I know he's a good guy. So, yes, no fighting, nothing. Just something to celebrate."
Emery Snub and Tunnel Tensions
The comprehensive win was not without further incident off the pitch. Villa manager Unai Emery headed straight down the tunnel at full-time, offering no handshake to his opposite number Mikel Arteta. Furthermore, Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez had to be restrained by club staff after appearing to be taunted by home supporters as he left the field.
The three points were crucial in the context of the title race, pushing Arsenal six points clear of Aston Villa and maintaining a five-point cushion over Manchester City, who have a game in hand. The victory reasserted the Gunners' authority at the top of the table after a potentially damaging setback at Villa Park just weeks prior.
With the New Year underway, Arsenal's statement performance, fueled by a desire for retribution, has sent a powerful message to their rivals in what is shaping up to be a thrilling Premier League title chase.
