Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is keen to replicate his team's previous success against Arsenal as they prepare to visit the Emirates Stadium this Saturday. Last season, Villa delivered a significant blow to Arsenal's Premier League title aspirations with a commanding 2-0 victory in this fixture, courtesy of goals from Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailey. This result remains fresh in the minds of both sets of supporters, and Emery will be hoping to draw on that experience as his side aims for another positive outcome.
Entering this match, Villa are in impressive form, having secured three consecutive victories. This momentum could prove pivotal as they face a revitalised Arsenal side, who are buoyed by a recent narrow win in the north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. In that match, Arsenal staged a remarkable comeback, scoring two goals in quick succession to clinch the points. Currently, they sit just four points behind league leaders Liverpool, although they have played one more match than their rivals. Mikel Arteta will be hoping for a favourable result in the earlier fixture between Brentford and Liverpool, which could aid Arsenal's title ambitions.
However, Arsenal's preparations have been hampered by an expanding injury list. Gabriel Jesus suffered a serious ACL injury during last weekend's FA Cup clash against Manchester United, ruling him out for the remainder of the season. Additionally, Bukayo Saka is set for an extended absence. While young talent Ethan Nwaneri has shown promise, he too is sidelined, joining defensive players Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu in the treatment room. There is some hope for Arsenal, as Riccardo Calafiori, who missed the north London derby due to a muscle issue, may return for the encounter with Villa.
The anticipated Arsenal lineup for the match is expected to be a 4-3-3 formation, featuring: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Trossard, Havertz, Martinelli.
For Aston Villa, the arrival of Donyell Malen, the club's first signing of the January transfer window, has generated considerable excitement, and he could make his debut at the Emirates. However, Emery may choose to ease him into the squad gradually. The midfield will be without key players John McGinn and Ross Barkley, which could significantly impact Villa's performance. Furthermore, Emery faces challenges in defence, with Pau Torres and Diego Carlos unavailable, the latter's future at Villa Park under scrutiny due to interest from Turkish clubs.
Aston Villa's predicted lineup against Arsenal is likely to be a 4-2-3-1 formation: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Mings, Digne; Kamara, Onana; Rogers, Tielemans, Ramsey; Watkins.
Arsenal have struggled to find their rhythm in the wake of Saka's injury, and the loss of Jesus for the season may compel them to explore the transfer market for additional attacking options. Recent performances have highlighted their difficulties in converting chances, with the Gunners relying on a set piece and a defensive error to secure victory over Spurs. In contrast, while Villa are enjoying a strong run of form and possess a potent attacking line, they have faced challenges defensively, with their shutout against Everton being their first in the Premier League since early December.
As Saturday's late kick-off approaches, both teams will be eager to secure vital points, with Villa feeling optimistic about their chances of at least earning a draw in north London.