The Premier League's festive schedule delivers a heavyweight clash this weekend as surprise title hopefuls Aston Villa travel to face Champions League-chasing Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The match, set for the weekend of the 22nd December 2025, is overshadowed by significant injury concerns for both camps, with four players definitely missing and a further six major doubts.
Villa's Historic Run Meets Chelsea's Challenge
Aston Villa arrive in the capital in phenomenal form, riding a wave of 10 consecutive victories across all competitions. This represents their best winning run in over 110 years. Their latest triumph, a 2-1 win over Manchester United, solidified their hold on third place, just three points behind leaders Arsenal. Unai Emery's side are a staggering seven points clear of both Chelsea and Liverpool, finding themselves in their strongest position at this stage of a season since Christmas 1998.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are a work in progress under Enzo Maresca but have shown they can beat any team on their day. A 2-2 draw with Newcastle United last time out highlighted their inconsistencies, but the Blues know a win is vital to close the gap on the top four.
Chelsea's Lengthy Injury List
The home side's squad is stretched thin. Summer signing Liam Delap is a major doubt with a shoulder issue and isn't expected back until early January. Young star Estevao is also a slight doubt but could make the bench with a late fitness test.
In midfield, Romeo Lavia is definitely out with a thigh problem, scheduled to return next month. Dario Luis Essugo has a similar issue without a return date. In a devastating blow, centre-back Levi Colwill is unlikely to play again this season after sustaining an ACL injury, severely damaging his World Cup hopes. Mykhailo Mudryk is absent due to suspension.
Aston Villa's Selection Headaches
Villa's injury situation is equally concerning. Defender Pau Torres, a £35 million signing in 2023, is a major doubt with a calf issue. He will be assessed midweek to determine if he can feature before the end of 2025.
Tyrone Mings is definitely out with a calf injury, while Ross Barkley is sidelined until February with a knee problem. Evann Guessand is unavailable due to AFCON duties.
There is some positive news. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez returned against Manchester United and will keep his place. Jadon Sancho is in contention to face his former club after being ineligible last time out. Harvey Elliott, however, is struggling. The Liverpool loanee missed his ninth consecutive squad due to illness but is expected back in training, though a starting spot seems unlikely.
Implications for the Festive Fixture
The sheer volume of absentees and doubts will force both managers into tactical reshuffles. Villa's defensive solidity could be tested without key figures, while Chelsea's attacking options are limited. This match, one of the most anticipated of the festive period, may ultimately be decided by which squad can best cope with its depleted resources. Both sides are acutely aware that being at their best is non-negotiable to secure a positive result in this high-stakes encounter.
