Unai Emery Confirms Two Changes for Aston Villa's Premier League Clash with Brighton
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has officially named his starting lineup for the Premier League encounter against Brighton at Villa Park this evening. The Spanish tactician has opted to make two alterations from the side that secured a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium last Sunday.
Villa's Starting Eleven and Tactical Setup
Emi Martinez retains his position between the posts, guarding a defensive line consisting of Lamare Bogarde, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Ian Maatsen. In midfield, the double pivot features Amadou Onana alongside Douglas Luiz, providing a solid foundation. The attacking trio behind striker Ollie Watkins comprises Jadon Sancho, Morgan Rogers, and Emi Buendia, aiming to unlock Brighton's defense.
Substitutes: Bizot, Wright, Lindelof, Digne, Torres, Barkley, Bailey, Abraham, Alysson.
Historical Context and Recent Form
Aston Villa have a strong historical record against Brighton, having won seven of their last nine Premier League meetings. The Villans are seeking to complete a league double over the Seagulls for the third consecutive season, having achieved this feat in both the 2022-23 and 2023-24 campaigns.
However, Emery's squad have managed only two victories in their last seven midweek league fixtures, though both of those wins came against Brighton. On the other hand, Brighton have struggled on their travels, failing to secure a win in any of their last five away Premier League matches since a 2-0 triumph over Nottingham Forest under Sean Dyche.
That solitary victory stands as Brighton's only success in their last seven away games against managers currently in the Premier League, with defeats coming against Kieran McKenna, Ruben Amorim, Ivan Juric, Vítor Pereira, Ange Postecoglou, and Enzo Maresca.
Key Players and Match Expectations
With Ollie Watkins leading the line and creative talents like Sancho and Buendia in support, Villa will look to exploit Brighton's defensive vulnerabilities. The midfield battle between Onana, Luiz, and Brighton's engine room could prove decisive in controlling the tempo of the game.
As both teams vie for crucial points in the Premier League standings, this encounter promises to be a compelling tactical duel between Unai Emery and his Brighton counterpart.
