Aston Villa Face Pivotal European Clash at Villa Park
Aston Villa prepare for a significant Europa League encounter on Thursday evening as they welcome Swiss side BSC Young Boys to Villa Park. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, the Premier League outfit have made a strong start to the league phase, securing victory in three of their opening four matches.
Their only setback came in a surprising 2-1 away defeat to Go Ahead Eagles, a result that served as a reminder of the competition's unpredictability. A win against Young Boys would significantly bolster Villa's chances of securing a coveted top-eight finish, placing them in an excellent position ahead of challenging away fixtures against Basel and Fenerbahçe.
Emery's Selection Dilemma Amidst Festive Fixture Pile-Up
The impending festive period has created a congested schedule for Emery's squad, influencing his team selection for this European tie. The team is slated to play six matches in just 17 days, a demanding run that includes Premier League clashes with Wolves, Brighton, Arsenal, West Ham, and Manchester United, interspersed with the European trip to Basel.
This fixture crunch is likely to prompt several changes to the starting lineup. In goal, Emi Martínez is anticipated to retain his place. The defence could see Matty Cash, Victor Lindelöf, Pau Torres, and Ian Maatsen tasked with containing the opposition.
Predicted Villa Lineup Shows Attacking Flair
The midfield may feature a partnership of Lamare Bogarde and Ross Barkley, offering a blend of youth and experience. Further forward, the attack could see a refreshed look. Jadon Sancho is in line for a start, operating in a wide role alongside Evann Guessand, with the creative Emi Buendía deployed in the number 10 position.
Leading the line is likely to be Donyell Malen, as first-choice striker Ollie Watkins has been managing a fitness concern in recent weeks. This potential rotation highlights the depth of Villa's squad and Emery's strategic approach to navigating this intense period.
The predicted Aston Villa starting XI is: Martínez; Cash, Lindelöf, Torres, Maatsen; Bogarde, Barkley; Guessand, Buendía, Sancho; Malen.
