Unai Emery has confirmed his Aston Villa starting lineup for today's highly anticipated Premier League clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Villa Park.
Major Team Shake-Up for Midlands Derby
The Villa boss has made a significant six changes to the side that secured a 2-1 Europa League victory over BSC Young Boys just days ago on Thursday. The most notable team news is the decision to start Donyell Malen as the central striker, with key forward Ollie Watkins named among the substitutes.
Emiliano Martínez retains his place in goal, protected by a back four of Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Lucas Digne. The midfield sees Boubacar Kamara and Youri Tielemans operating as the defensive pivot.
Attacking Lineup and Bench Strength
Ahead of them, the creative and attacking responsibilities fall to captain John McGinn, Emiliano Buendía, and Morgan Rogers. This trio will be tasked with providing the ammunition for lone striker Donyell Malen.
The Villa bench showcases considerable depth, with the aforementioned Ollie Watkins joined by other potential game-changers like Jadon Sancho and Amadou Onana.
What's at Stake for Villa Today?
This Midlands derby carries significant weight in the Premier League table. A victory for Unai Emery's men this afternoon could propel them as high as third place. Their final position will also depend on the result of Chelsea's match against league leaders Arsenal later in the day.
Villa come into the fixture in formidable form, especially at home. They have won their last seven consecutive home matches and have beaten Wolves at Villa Park in each of the previous two seasons, giving them a strong psychological advantage.
Aston Villa starting XI vs Wolves: Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne, Kamara, Tielemans, McGinn, Buendia, Rogers, Malen.
Subs: Bizot, Lindelof, Maatsen, Bogarde, Barkley, Onana, Guessand, Watkins, Sancho.
