Aston Villa prepare to host title-chasing Arsenal this Saturday in a pivotal Premier League encounter at Villa Park. Under the guidance of manager Unai Emery, the Midlands club are riding a wave of confidence, sitting firmly in the top four and eyeing a return to the Champions League.
Villa's Form and Key Absences
This high-stakes fixture comes on the back of a thrilling 4-3 victory away at Brighton & Hove Albion. Striker Ollie Watkins ended a relative goal drought with a crucial brace, supported by goals from Amadou Onana and Donyell Malen. However, the win came at a cost, with first-choice goalkeeper Emi Martinez sustaining an injury. This has paved the way for summer signing Marco Bizot, who made his debut at the AMEX Stadium, to continue between the posts.
Predicted Defensive and Midfield Shake-Up
Emery is expected to make strategic adjustments to his starting eleven to tackle the threat posed by Mikel Arteta's Gunners. In defence, the experienced Lucas Digne is tipped to replace Ian Maatsen at left-back. The Frenchman's know-how is seen as vital in containing the dangerous Bukayo Saka.
The midfield is also set for a refresh, with Youri Tielemans likely to be recalled to the starting line-up. The Belgian's inclusion, potentially at the expense of Boubacar Kamara, is intended to inject freshness and control into the engine room for what promises to be a demanding contest.
Attacking Threats and Consistent Performers
Further forward, the in-form Donyell Malen should retain his place on the right wing after finding the net against Brighton. The attacking midfield berth is set to be occupied by the influential Morgan Rogers, while John McGinn, fresh from helping Scotland qualify for the 2026 World Cup and signing a new contract, will provide drive from the left.
The focal point of the attack remains Ollie Watkins, who will be desperate to build on his two-goal haul and lead the line against the Arsenal defence. The backline will be marshalled by the consistent Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres, with Matty Cash a guaranteed starter at right-back.
Aston Villa's predicted full XI vs Arsenal: Bizot; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Onana, Tielemans; Malen, Rogers, McGinn; Watkins.
