Unai Emery and Ruben Amorim have finalised their selections for a pivotal Premier League encounter as Aston Villa host Manchester United at Villa Park this afternoon. The confirmed team news reveals key changes for both sides ahead of a match that could significantly impact the race for European qualification.
High Stakes at Villa Park
The Villans enter this fixture in formidable form, boasting 10 wins from their last 11 Premier League outings. They aim to extend that run and halt Manchester United's own recent momentum, with the visitors currently on a four-match unbeaten streak. A victory for the hosts would see them surge 10 points clear of United, while an away win would close the gap to just four points. However, history heavily favours the Red Devils, who have lost just once in their last 26 league visits to Villa Park.
Team News and Key Selections
Unai Emery has made a significant but solitary change to his Aston Villa lineup. World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez returns to the starting XI after recovering from a back injury, replacing his deputy between the posts. Martinez was subject to intense transfer speculation linking him with a move to Old Trafford during the summer window.
For the visitors, Ruben Amorim has been more proactive, making three alterations to the side that was involved in a dramatic 4-4 draw with AFC Bournemouth on Monday. The specific changes see new faces introduced as Amorim looks to solidify United's defence and midfield.
Confirmed Starting Lineups and Substitutes
Aston Villa Starting XI: Martinez (GK); Cash, Konsa, Lindelof, Maatsen; Onana, Kamara; Tielemans, McGinn, Rogers; Watkins.
Aston Villa Substitutes: Bizot (GK), Digne, Garcia, Routh, Bogarde, Hemmings, Buendia, Malen, Guessand.
Manchester United Starting XI: Lammens (GK); Dalot, Yoro, Heaven, Shaw, Dorgu; Ugarte, B. Fernandes, Mount, Cunha; Sesko.
Manchester United Substitutes: Bayindir (GK), Heaton (GK), Fredricson, Malacia, Mantato, L. Martinez, J. Fletcher, Lacey, Zirkzee.
Notable Squad Inclusion
One intriguing name on the Villa bench is striker Evann Guessand. His inclusion comes despite a midweek call-up to the Ivory Coast squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. It is understood that Guessand will depart for the international tournament immediately following this Premier League fixture.
With the lineups now set, all eyes turn to Villa Park for what promises to be a compelling contest between two sides with contrasting recent histories at this ground but identical ambitions for three crucial points.
