Aston Villa Starting XI Confirmed for Brentford Premier League Encounter
Unai Emery has officially revealed his Aston Villa starting lineup as they prepare to host Brentford in a crucial Premier League fixture this afternoon. The Villa manager has implemented a significant seven changes from the side that secured a dramatic comeback victory against RB Salzburg in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Key Returns and Notable Absences
In a major boost for Villa, both Tammy Abraham and Douglas Luiz are set to make their second debuts for the club, marking their return to competitive action. However, the team will be without the services of striker Ollie Watkins, who misses out due to injury.
The confirmed starting formation sees Emi Martínez taking his place between the posts, protected by a back four consisting of Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Ian Maatsen. In midfield, Lamare Bogarde partners Douglas Luiz in the double pivot role, providing both defensive solidity and creative distribution.
The attacking trio behind lone striker Tammy Abraham comprises Jadon Sancho, Morgan Rogers, and Emi Buendía, offering a blend of pace, technical ability, and goal threat. This selection indicates Emery's intention to control possession while maintaining offensive potency against the Bees.
Historical Context and Recent Form
Aston Villa enter this match with an impressive historical record against Brentford at Villa Park, having never lost any of their 10 previous home league meetings with the London club. This represents the longest unbeaten home run Villa have maintained against any single opponent at their famous ground.
Despite this strong historical precedent, Villa's recent home form in the Premier League shows some vulnerability. They were defeated 1–0 by Everton in their last league outing at Villa Park, though they haven't suffered consecutive home league defeats since February 2024. The team will be aiming to secure a fourth successive victory across all competitions this afternoon.
Brentford, meanwhile, will draw confidence from having won the reverse fixture 1–0 back in August, though they have never managed to beat Villa in consecutive league meetings. The Bees arrive at Villa Park having lost their last two Premier League matches, both by 2–0 scorelines against Chelsea and Nottingham Forest.
Thomas Frank's side will be desperate to avoid equalling an unwanted record – they last suffered three consecutive league defeats without scoring back in March 2012, when they were competing in League One. This adds significant pressure to their performance today.
Complete Matchday Squad
Aston Villa Starting XI: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Maatsen; Bogarde, Luiz; Sancho, Rogers, Buendia; Abraham.
Substitutes: Bizot, Mings, Lindelof, Digne, Barkley, Hemmings, Onana, Bailey, Elliott.
This selection represents a bold statement from Unai Emery, blending experienced campaigners with returning stars as Villa look to strengthen their position in the Premier League table. The inclusion of both Abraham and Luiz provides fresh attacking options and midfield control, while the defensive unit remains largely consistent despite the numerous changes elsewhere.
The stage is set for an intriguing tactical battle between two managers known for their meticulous preparation and innovative approaches. With Villa's unbeaten home record against Brentford on the line, and the visitors seeking to end their recent poor run, this Premier League encounter promises significant drama and footballing quality.
