Aston Villa Predicted XI vs Freiburg: Onana Decision, Buendia Starts
Aston Villa Predicted XI vs Freiburg: Onana Decision

Aston Villa will begin their preparations for the Europa League final on Monday at Bodymoor Heath, as Unai Emery's side aim to end the club's 30-year wait for silverware next week.

SC Freiburg stand in their way of glory, but Emery will be hoping to have a near full-strength squad available. Boubacar Kamara remains unavailable, while Ross Barkley and Alysson cannot feature as they were not included in the European squad.

The only current injury concern is Amadou Onana, who has been dealing with a calf issue. He has missed Villa's last four matches after being forced off early in the second half against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground in the Europa League semi-final first leg.

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Victor Lindelof has stepped in as a holding midfielder but was substituted at half-time against Liverpool in their most recent outing. However, the Sweden international is expected to be available for selection on Wednesday after experiencing minor foot discomfort on Friday.

Emi Martinez is set to start in goal against Freiburg, likely behind a defence of Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Lucas Digne.

Even if Onana is fit enough to make the squad, Emery may opt to start Lindelof, with the Belgian potentially used as an impact substitute if needed.

Youri Tielemans is expected to partner Lindelof in midfield, with John McGinn on the right flank, while Emi Buendia and Morgan Rogers support striker Ollie Watkins.

From the bench, Emery will have attacking options including Tammy Abraham, Leon Bailey, and Jadon Sancho.

Predicted Aston Villa XI: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Lindelof, Tielemans; McGinn, Buendia, Rogers; Watkins.

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