MANCHESTER, AFP: Arsenal beat Chelsea 1-0 to dispel doubts over their Premier League title credentials and go top of the table on Sunday as Manchester United were blown away 3-1 by an inspired Aston Villa on Unai Emery’s bow as boss.

United are now three points off the top four after Newcastle continued their fine form with a 4-1 win at Southampton to go third.

Victory takes Arsenal back two points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table.

Crucially for Arteta’s men after six seasons outside the Champions League, their lead over fifth-place now stands at 11 points.

United were unbeaten in nine games as the Red Devils appeared to be taking shape under Erik ten Hag. But despite the lavish amounts spent to assemble the United squad, a lack of strength in depth was exposed with Antony, Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane missing due to injury and Bruno Fernandes suspended.

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