As Aston Villa prepare for crucial fixtures against RB Salzburg in the Europa League and Brentford in the Premier League, the club faces significant challenges with a growing injury list. Unai Emery's squad, which has enjoyed a strong start to 2026, must navigate these matches while managing the absences of several key players.
Europa League and Premier League Challenges Ahead
Aston Villa conclude their Europa League group stage campaign with a home match against Red Bull Salzburg, having already secured qualification for the last sixteen. However, securing three points could prove vital in determining an easier pathway to the final in Istanbul later this year.
Meanwhile, RB Salzburg arrive at Villa Park with plenty to play for, sitting on just six points from seven matches. A victory could keep their slim hopes of reaching the play-off phase alive, depending on results elsewhere.
In the Premier League, Villa face a demanding home encounter against European darkhorses Brentford, prompting potential squad rotation due to the current injury crisis.
Detailed Injury Updates and Expected Return Dates
Youri Tielemans' Ankle Injury Setback
Youri Tielemans suffered an ankle injury during Aston Villa's historic away victory at Newcastle United, their first win at St James' Park in twenty-one years. This setback has exacerbated the club's midfield crisis and likely influenced their decision to pursue the return of Douglas Luiz.
The Belgian international is expected to be sidelined for approximately eight to ten weeks with this issue.
Expected return date: April 2026
John McGinn's Recent Injury Concern
John McGinn was forced off during the first half of Aston Villa's recent 1-0 defeat to Everton at Villa Park. Following the match, he underwent a series of medical tests throughout the subsequent week.
The Scottish midfielder is anticipated to miss the next six to eight weeks of action but should recover in time for the upcoming World Cup tournament.
Expected return date: April 2026
Ross Barkley's Potential Early Return
Ross Barkley, who was linked with a potential move to Sheffield United earlier in the transfer window, could make a quicker than expected recovery from his knee injury. The midfielder has been undertaking individual training sessions as part of his rehabilitation programme and is targeting a return to first-team action early next month.
Expected return date: February 2026
Additional Squad Injury Concerns
Andres Garcia, who has endured an injury-disrupted season, has suffered another setback with a hamstring problem. Although considered a minor injury, it is sufficient to keep him out of contention for several weeks.
Expected return date: Late February 2026
Alysson Edward, signed during the summer transfer window, continues to await his Aston Villa debut while nursing a knee injury. The full extent of the nineteen-year-old's problem remains undisclosed by the club.
Expected return date: Unknown
Perhaps most significantly, Boubacar Kamara faces a season-ending knee injury that has deprived Villa of one of their standout performers this campaign. The French midfielder is not expected to feature again until pre-season at the earliest.
Expected return date: June 2026
As Aston Villa navigate these injury challenges, squad depth and tactical flexibility will be tested during this demanding period of European and domestic competition.
