Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will be absent from the touchline as his team faces Aston Villa at Villa Park in the Premier League on Saturday, December 9, 2023.

Arteta received a yellow card for his exuberant celebration following Declan Rice’s late winner in their 4-3 triumph against Luton Town on Tuesday, December 5, 2023.

As this marked his third yellow card of the season, the Spaniard is automatically suspended from the touchline for the upcoming match at Villa Park, presenting a setback for the Gunners.

Despite this consequence, the former Barcelona, Arsenal, and Everton midfielder expressed no remorse, emphasizing his desire to continue relishing sentimental moments, such as the thrilling victory at Kenilworth Road.

Aston Villa is enjoying a remarkable streak on their home turf, securing victory in 14 consecutive league games, with the latest being a commanding 1-0 win over Manchester City on Wednesday that propelled them to third place in the table.

The last team to defeat Aston Villa at Villa Park was Arsenal on February 18, 2023. Now, the Gunners aim to bring an end to Villa’s impressive home run. However, Arteta’s absence from the touchline could pose a challenge for the league leaders.

A clash between the best home team vs the best away team

The clash between the best home team and the best away team promises an exciting battle.

Arsenal’s formidable away record this season, winning five out of seven games, poses a challenge to Aston Villa’s impeccable home form.

Arsenal, with a four-match winning streak, faces the test of breaking Aston Villa’s home dominance.

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The Gunners have a strong away record, having won five out of seven away games this season.

Villa, on the other hand, remains unbeaten in their last four matches. They have a perfect record at home, winning all seven matches and scoring 24 goals while conceding only five.