Aston Villa Injury Latest: Midfield Concerns Mount Ahead of RB Salzburg Fixture
Unai Emery's Aston Villa squad has been hit by a fresh wave of injury setbacks, casting a shadow over their recent impressive form. The Villans secured crucial away victories against Fenerbahçe and Newcastle United in a perfect week, but the triumph at St. James' Park came at a cost, with midfielder Youri Tielemans becoming the latest casualty.
Ross Barkley: Nearing a Return to Action
There is a glimmer of positive news for Villa supporters, as Ross Barkley is anticipated to rejoin group training imminently. The experienced midfielder has been sidelined since November, missing the last two months due to a persistent knee issue. Barkley's season has been disrupted, limiting him to just eight appearances across all competitions without a single start.
Manager Unai Emery confirmed recently that the 32-year-old could resume training with the first-team squad at Bodymoor Heath this week, potentially putting him in contention for selection soon.
Possible return date: February 1 versus Brentford (Away)
John McGinn: Facing an Extended Spell on the Sidelines
Club captain John McGinn is expected to be absent for approximately six weeks after sustaining a knee injury during Villa's narrow defeat to Everton. While there is hope his recovery could progress ahead of schedule, the club's medical staff are planning for a cautious approach and not relying on an early comeback.
This timeline means McGinn is likely to miss several key fixtures, including important Premier League encounters against Chelsea and Manchester United in early March, dealing a significant blow to Villa's midfield options.
Possible return date: March 4 versus Chelsea (Home)
Youri Tielemans: Fresh Ankle Injury Under Assessment
The most recent addition to the treatment room is Youri Tielemans, who was forced off in the 75th minute against Newcastle after an awkward challenge. The incident occurred when Newcastle's Lewis Miley appeared to make contact with Tielemans' lower leg following a tussle on the ground.
The Belgian international will now undergo further medical evaluation to determine the full extent of the ankle problem, with the Villa management and fanbase anxiously awaiting the diagnosis.
Possible return date: Currently unknown, pending assessment
Boubacar Kamara: Ruled Out for the Season
In a more severe long-term setback, Boubacar Kamara suffered a serious knee injury during the FA Cup third-round victory over Tottenham earlier this month. The French midfielder has already undergone successful surgery in Lyon and has begun his rehabilitation process, but he is confirmed to miss the remainder of the campaign.
This represents a substantial loss for Villa's midfield depth, with Kamara's defensive qualities and experience now unavailable as the team navigates multiple competitions.
Possible return date: Unknown, expected to be next season
As Aston Villa prepare for their upcoming European fixture against RB Salzburg, these mounting injury concerns in midfield will test the squad's resilience and Emery's tactical adaptability in the weeks ahead.
