Aston Villa will be looking to start 2026 with a victory as they welcome Nottingham Forest to Villa Park this Saturday in the Premier League. The match comes on the back of a disappointing 4-1 defeat away to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium just before the New Year, a result Unai Emery's men will be desperate to put behind them.
Despite the loss, striker Ollie Watkins managed to continue his scoring form, finding the net against the Gunners. Villa remain in a strong position in the league, sitting third after 19 games and holding a nine-point cushion inside the top four over Chelsea. The focus now shifts to securing three points against Forest.
Predicted Villa Line-up: Defence and Goalkeeper
In goal, World Cup winner Emi Martinez is expected to retain his place despite a difficult evening at Arsenal, where an error from a corner contributed to the opening goal. He will be protected by a defence likely to see significant changes.
Matty Cash is poised for an immediate return at right-back after serving a suspension. His comeback is timely, given he faces his former club, Nottingham Forest, whom he left in 2020. He replaces Lamare Bogarde. In central defence, the impressive Ezri Konsa should continue alongside January signing Victor Lindelof, who is providing vital cover for the injured Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres.
At left-back, Unai Emery faces a choice between Ian Maatsen and Lucas Digne. The prediction leans towards Maatsen getting the nod for this encounter. The 23-year-old has featured 19 times this season and has one goal to his name.
Midfield and Attack: Kamara Returns, McGinn in Contention
The midfield is set for a major boost with the return of Boubacar Kamara. Like Cash, he missed the Arsenal match due to suspension and his influence in the engine room was sorely missed. He is predicted to slot straight back in alongside the settled Amadou Onana, who has become a key figure since his 2024 move from Everton.
A key decision for Emery lies in the attacking midfield roles. Kamara's return could see Youri Tielemans pushed into a more advanced position, potentially at the expense of Emi Buendia. On the flanks, Morgan Rogers is expected to continue on the left after his recent brace against Manchester United.
On the right, there is a strong chance that club captain John McGinn will be recalled to the starting eleven. His energy and leadership, showcased after coming off the bench at Arsenal, could see him replace Jadon Sancho. Leading the line will, of course, be the in-form Ollie Watkins, who will be eager to add to his goal tally as the January transfer window opens.
Looking Ahead to a Crucial Clash
This home fixture represents a prime opportunity for Aston Villa to regain momentum and solidify their top-four credentials. The returns of key figures like Cash and Kamara from suspension provide a timely lift, while the potential reintroduction of McGinn adds steel and experience.
Facing a Nottingham Forest side battling at the other end of the table, Villa will be expected to control the game and secure a vital win at Villa Park. All eyes will be on how Emery's tweaked side responds to their last outing as they aim to kick off the new year in the perfect fashion.
