Unai Emery marked his third year as Aston Villa manager with a determined 1-0 win over Manchester City, ending the champions’ nine-match unbeaten run.
Matty Cash’s precise left-foot strike from the edge of the box after 19 minutes proved decisive, though City were frustrated that the corner leading to the goal was awarded after what they felt was a foul by Lucas Digne on Matheus Nunes.
Erling Haaland had a golden chance to equalise moments later, but his low shot was denied by Emiliano Martínez.
From there, City struggled to find rhythm, with Villa looking sharper and more organised.
In the second half, John McGinn’s fierce volley was blocked, and City keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma pulled off a superb double save to keep Jadon Sancho out.
At the other end, Pau Torres made a crucial clearance off the line to deny Savinho, while Haaland’s late goal was ruled out for offside, capping a frustrating afternoon for Pep Guardiola’s side.
Villa, who went winless in their opening six league matches, have now claimed six victories from their last seven outings.
Emery’s men have rediscovered their intensity and defensive solidity, bouncing back impressively from Thursday’s Europa League defeat to Go Ahead Eagles.
The partnership of Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres nullified Haaland, while Amadou Onana shielded the defence superbly.
Cash’s winning goal - his second of the season - epitomized Villa’s balance between grit and precision.
This was Villa’s third straight home league victory over City, a feat last achieved in 1975, and it keeps their resurgence firmly on track under Emery’s astute leadership.
City’s hopes of moving closer to the top were dashed as they fell six points behind leaders Arsenal.
Haaland’s rare off day - just his second goalless outing this season - summed up a lacklustre display.
While Guardiola’s men dominated possession, they lacked cutting edge in the final third.
Haaland thought he had salvaged a late equaliser, only for VAR to confirm an offside in the build-up.
To make matters worse, the Norwegian briefly raised injury concerns after colliding with the post following the disallowed goal.
For City, it was a missed opportunity - and a reminder that even champions can be outworked and outthought.
