Aston Villa's Predicted Starting XI for Bournemouth Premier League Clash
Unai Emery is grappling with several selection dilemmas as Aston Villa prepare to face Bournemouth in a crucial Premier League encounter this Sunday. The match presents an opportunity for Villa to complete their first league double over the Cherries this season, following a dominant 4–0 victory at Villa Park back in November.
Recent Form and Match Context
Aston Villa are eager to return to winning ways after experiencing successive home league defeats. Their recent form has been inconsistent, with a loss to Everton at home, followed by a hard-fought win at Newcastle, and then another disappointing 1–0 defeat against Brentford in their last outing at Villa Park.
Bournemouth, meanwhile, have shown significant improvement, winning three of their last four Premier League matches. This marks a stark turnaround from their previous run of eleven games without a victory. Notably, Andoni Iraola's side have demonstrated impressive form against top-tier opposition, securing five victories in their last seven league matches against teams starting the day in the top three of the table.
Defensive and Goalkeeping Setup
Emi Martinez is expected to continue between the posts for Aston Villa, providing stability and experience in goal. The defensive line is likely to remain unchanged, with Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Ian Maatsen forming the back four. This defensive unit will be crucial in containing Bournemouth's attacking threats.
Midfield Selection Challenges
The midfield presents Emery with his most significant selection headache. Amadou Onana was rested on the bench against Brentford last weekend due to muscle fatigue, but if he passes fitness assessments, he is anticipated to start at the Vitality Stadium. Douglas Luiz is expected to feature prominently, likely partnering either Onana or Lamare Bogarde, as he did in the previous match.
In the attacking midfield positions, Morgan Rogers and Emi Buendía are poised to occupy two of the supporting roles behind the central striker. Their creativity and link-up play will be vital in breaking down Bournemouth's defence.
Attacking Options and Forward Line
On the right flank, Jadon Sancho could retain his starting position, though Leon Bailey's impactful second-half performance off the bench against Brentford has given Emery serious consideration for alternative options. Bailey's pace and directness might offer a different dimension to Villa's attack.
The most significant decision lies in the striker position. Ollie Watkins will undergo a late fitness test before the match. If declared fit, he is expected to lead the line ahead of Tammy Abraham, despite Abraham's impressive debut performance in the previous game. Watkins' movement and goal threat could prove decisive in this important fixture.
Predicted Starting Lineup
Aston Villa predicted XI vs Bournemouth: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Maatsen; Onana, Luiz; Sancho, Rogers, Buendia; Watkins.
This lineup reflects Emery's likely preference for experience and balance, though final decisions will depend on last-minute fitness assessments and tactical considerations. The match promises to be a fascinating tactical battle between two managers known for their strategic approaches to the game.
