Aston Villa will be looking to continue their strong run of form when they host Bournemouth in this Premier League clash. Unai Emery’s men have been impressive across all competitions, balancing their domestic duties with a solid European campaign. Villa will be confident of securing a result at Villa Park, where they remain difficult to beat.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth arrive fresh off an impressive victory against Arsenal, hoping to build on that momentum as they aim for greater consistency this season.
Both teams are missing key players due to suspensions and injuries, but with plenty of talent available, we can expect an intriguing tactical battle. Bournemouth’s counter-attacking style could pose problems for a Villa side that thrives in possession.
Aston Villa will likely rotate their squad slightly following their midweek Champions League fixture. Ollie Watkins is expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested, taking his place up front.
In midfield, John McGinn should start, with Youri Tielemans and Jacob Ramsey offering support. Villa’s backline, marshalled by Pau Torres and Diego Carlos, will be tasked with maintaining their defensive discipline.
With Jaden Philogene suspended after his red card against Fulham, Leon Bailey could slot into a wide attacking role. Lucas Digne and Matty Cash will look to provide width from the full-back positions, while Emiliano Martínez remains the undisputed choice in goal.
Martinez; Cash, Carlos, Torres, Digne; Tielemans, McGinn; Bailey, Rogers, Ramsey; Watkins
Here is how the side last lined up
Bournemouth, buoyed by their victory over Arsenal, will likely field a similar side. Andoni Iraola is expected to keep faith in the defensive partnership of Illia Zabarnyi and Marcos Senesi, while Justin Kluivert should retain his place after scoring against Arsenal. Tyler Adams is also fit again and may feature in midfield alongside Lewis Cook.
Ryan Christie, who played a pivotal role against Arsenal, could be rewarded with another start, while Adam Smith may return at right-back, replacing Julian Araujo. Up front, Brazilian striker Evanilson is expected to lead the line, with Kluivert and Tavernier providing width.
Kepa; Smith, Zabarnyi, Senesi, Kerkez; Cook, Scott; Semenyo, Kluivert, Tavernier; Evanilson
Here is how the side last lined up
