Aston Villa Set for Europa League Finale Against Red Bull Salzburg
Aston Villa are preparing to conclude the league phase of their UEFA Europa League campaign with a significant home fixture against Austrian side Red Bull Salzburg. This Thursday evening encounter at Villa Park represents a historic first competitive meeting between the two clubs on the European stage, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the final round of group matches.
Fixture Details and Broadcast Information
The crucial match is scheduled for an 8:00 PM GMT kick-off on Thursday, January 29th, 2026. This timing is synchronised with all other final fixtures in the competition's league phase, a measure designed to uphold competitive fairness as teams vie for their final positions in the table.
For supporters in the United Kingdom, exclusive live television coverage will be provided by TNT Sports 2. The broadcast is set to commence with pre-match analysis and expert commentary shortly before the game begins at 8pm.
Fans preferring to watch online can access a live stream via the discovery+ app or website. This versatile streaming service is compatible with most smart devices, enabling subscribers to follow the action whether they are at home or on the move.
Team News and Selection Headaches
Unai Emery's Aston Villa squad is grappling with considerable injury concerns, particularly in midfield. Captain John McGinn is facing a reported two-month layoff, while fellow midfielders Boubacar Kamara and Ross Barkley remain sidelined with ongoing knee problems.
Further complicating team selection, winger Leon Bailey is unavailable due to suspension following his recent return to the side. Midfielder Amadou Onana is also considered a doubt as he manages a hamstring issue. There is widespread speculation that Emery may opt to rest key attacking players such as Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers, with an eye on preserving their fitness for upcoming Premier League commitments.
Visitors' Form and Absences
Red Bull Salzburg arrive in Birmingham in confident mood following a 3-1 victory over Basel in their previous European outing. However, they will be without suspended defender Anrie Chase and the injured duo of Takumu Kawamura and John Mellberg for this crucial away fixture.
Stakes and Standings
The match carries significant implications for the final league phase standings. Aston Villa currently occupy second position in the group and will be aiming to secure a top-two finish, which would grant them a more favourable route into the knockout stages of the competition.
Conversely, Red Bull Salzburg find themselves in 28th position and must secure all three points to maintain any realistic hope of climbing into the play-off positions. This creates a scenario where both teams have clear objectives, promising a competitive and engaging encounter at Villa Park.
The stage is set for an intriguing European night in Birmingham as Aston Villa look to put a positive flourish on their league phase campaign against determined Austrian opposition.
