Aston Villa face a mounting injury crisis as they prepare for a pivotal Europa League away fixture against Turkish giants Fenerbahce this Thursday, followed by a Premier League trip to Newcastle United on Sunday.
Midfield Blow: John McGinn's Knee Injury
The major concern for manager Unai Emery is the condition of captain John McGinn. The influential Scottish midfielder was forced off in the first half of Villa's disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Everton this past weekend.
Speaking after the match, Emery confirmed the issue is with the player's knee but could not provide a definitive timeline for his return. "I don't know, it's his knee," the manager told BirminghamWorld, acknowledging the inevitable disruption injuries cause while highlighting opportunities for other squad members.
The 31-year-old, who signed a new contract earlier this season, is a pivotal figure at Villa Park, having made 314 appearances for the club since his 2018 move from Hibernian.
Kamara's Absence and Potential Returns
McGinn is not the only key midfielder sidelined. Boubacar Kamara remains out with a knee injury sustained in the FA Cup third-round tie against Tottenham Hotspur earlier in January. Emery indicated that more should be known about the Frenchman's condition this week.
His absence has opened the door for younger players like Lamare Bogarde and George Hemmings, who came off the bench against Everton. However, the manager is keen to regain the experience and solidity Kamara provides in the engine room.
Positive News on Onana and Barkley
There is, however, some encouraging news on the horizon for Villa fans. Emery provided updates on two other midfielders currently in the treatment room.
Amadou Onana (thigh) and Ross Barkley (knee) are both nearing a return to action. "Onana and Barkley they are coming back in one week or two weeks," Emery stated, confirming a significant boost is imminent for his squad options.
The update on Barkley comes amid speculation linking him with a move to Sheffield United, although a switch to the Championship side at this juncture would be considered surprising.
Villa's Challenging Schedule
These injury concerns arrive at a critical point in Villa's season. Despite the Everton setback, the Midlands club still holds a strong third place in the Premier League, behind only Arsenal and Manchester City.
The upcoming double-header of an away European tie in Istanbul and a tough league match at St. James' Park will severely test the squad's depth. Emery's ability to navigate this injury spell could be crucial to maintaining Villa's challenge on both domestic and continental fronts.
