Aston Villa defeats Manchester United to boost title hopes

December 22, 2025 / 12:22 AM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: Aston Villa strengthened their Premier League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Manchester United in the 17th round, extending their winning streak and adding to United's struggles this season.

Rodgers’ Brace secures victory

Star player Morgan Rodgers scored both goals for Villa in the 45th and 57th minutes. Brazilian Matheus Cunha had briefly equalized for Manchester United in stoppage time of the first half (45+3).

Villa’s title ambitions and winning streak

Under coach Unai Emery, Aston Villa raised their points tally to 36, now just three points behind league leaders Arsenal and one behind second-placed Manchester City. The victory marks Villa’s 11th consecutive win across all competitions and their seventh straight league win, a feat not achieved since the 1989-90 season.

Manchester United’s struggles continue

Manchester United remain in seventh place with 26 points, failing to win for the second consecutive match after their 4-4 draw against Bournemouth earlier this week. Villa’s strong home form in 2025, with just one defeat, further highlights the contrast in fortunes between the two clubs.