Aston Villa's Potential Starting XI with Loftus-Cheek and Kalulu Signings
As the January transfer window reaches its climax, Aston Villa appear poised for another period of significant activity, building on their busy 2025 winter market. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, the West Midlands club has already secured promising young talents, including Brazilian prodigy Alysson Edward from Gremio and teenager Brian Madjo. However, with the departure of Donyell Malen to AS Roma and a season-ending injury to Boubacar Kamara, Villa are actively seeking reinforcements in attack and midfield, alongside potential defensive additions.
This strategic push could dramatically reshape Villa's lineup for the remainder of the season. If the club successfully concludes its January business, here is a predicted starting eleven that might take to the pitch in the coming months.
Goalkeeper and Defence
GK: Emi Martinez – Despite intense interest from Manchester United and growing speculation from Inter Milan, the Argentine international has reaffirmed his commitment to Villa. Overcoming earlier form concerns, Martinez has solidified his position as the undisputed number one, at least until the summer.
RB: Matty Cash – The Polish defender is enjoying arguably his finest season in a Villa shirt, featuring consistently and delivering reliable performances that have made him a near-permanent fixture in the side.
CB: Ezri Konsa – Now serving as vice-captain, the 28-year-old has emerged as a pivotal leader both on and off the pitch. His exceptional form this campaign has even positioned him as a strong contender for a starting role with England in the upcoming World Cup.
CB: Pierre Kalulu – Villa are reportedly in a tussle with Tottenham Hotspur to sign the Juventus and France defender. Kalulu's versatility would provide valuable depth, potentially challenging Pau Torres for a starting berth if the transfer materialises.
LB: Ian Maatsen – The former Chelsea player is currently edging out Lucas Digne in the competition for the left-back spot. While rotation between the two remains common, Maatsen has recently gained the upper hand in this keenly contested position.
Midfield and Attack
CM: Amadou Onana – The club-record signing is anticipated to return from injury before the month concludes. His presence will be crucial in the second half of the season, especially following Kamara's unfortunate injury setback.
CM: Ruben Loftus-Cheek – Villa are said to be keen on acquiring the AC Milan midfielder this January. The powerful England international brings valuable Premier League experience from his previous spells with Chelsea and Fulham.
CAM: Youri Tielemans – The Belgian maestro has demonstrated his adaptability across various midfield roles. He could be deployed further forward to bolster Villa's attacking options in the latter part of the campaign.
RW: Morgan Rogers – Whether operating centrally or on the wing, Rogers has established himself as a formidable attacking threat and one of the team's most influential offensive players.
LW: Emi Buendia – With John McGinn sidelined due to injury, the Argentine international is set to receive an extended run in the team. Buendia appears revitalised this season, having overcome earlier injury challenges in his career.
ST: Jean-Philippe Mateta – The Crystal Palace striker has reportedly expressed a desire to leave Selhurst Park, with Villa among the clubs vying for his signature. While unlikely to start every match due to competition from Ollie Watkins, Mateta would offer Emery greater flexibility to rotate his attacking options.
This potential lineup underscores Villa's ambition to strengthen key areas as they aim for a strong finish to the season. The integration of new signings like Loftus-Cheek and Kalulu could provide the depth and quality needed to navigate a demanding schedule and achieve their objectives.
