Aston Villa are poised to face AS Monaco in a crucial Champions League group stage encounter on Tuesday evening, with aspirations of securing their place in the knockout rounds. The Villans have made a commendable return to Europe's elite competition, underscored by their recent 3-2 victory over RB Leipzig, which has significantly bolstered their chances of advancing. Under the astute management of Unai Emery, Villa have achieved four wins from six matches in the group stage, including a notable 1-0 triumph against Bayern Munich.
In their most recent outing, Villa showcased their resilience by staging a comeback to draw 2-2 against Arsenal in the Premier League. This performance is likely to serve as a confidence booster as they prepare to take on a struggling Monaco side. The French club finds itself in a precarious position, having suffered two consecutive defeats in the Champions League. Should their fortunes not improve, they risk being relegated to the knockout play-offs in their quest to reach the last 16. After a promising start to the season under coach Adi Hutter, Monaco's form has taken a downturn in 2025, culminating in a disappointing defeat against bottom-placed Montpellier last Friday.
This match will mark the first competitive meeting between the two clubs, and recent results for both teams illustrate their contrasting fortunes:
**Monaco's Recent Matches**
- Montpellier 2-1 Monaco - 17 January 2025
- Reims 1-1 (3-1p) Monaco - 14 January 2025
- Nantes 2-2 Monaco - 10 January 2025
- PSG 1-0 Monaco - 05 January 2025
- L'Union Saint-Jean 1-4 Monaco - 22 December 2024
**Aston Villa's Recent Matches**
- Arsenal 2-2 Aston Villa - 18 January 2025
- Everton 0-1 Aston Villa - 15 January 2025
- Aston Villa 2-1 West Ham - 10 January 2025
- Aston Villa 2-1 Leicester - 04 January 2025
- Aston Villa 2-2 Brighton - 30 December 2024
As reported by 90min, Monaco's attacking line is currently under pressure, and Hutter is expected to rely on the experienced Swiss forward Breel Embolo, supported by a youthful creative trio. However, Monaco will be without former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun, who is sidelined with a shoulder injury, as well as promising talent George Ilenikhena, who is recovering from a muscle issue. Additionally, Wilfried Singo and key midfielder Denis Zakaria missed the loss to Montpellier and remain doubtful for the match against Villa.
Monaco's anticipated lineup is likely to feature a 4-2-3-1 formation, comprising Majecki; Vanderson, Salisu, Kehrer, Henrique; Camara, Magassa; Akliouche, Golovin, Ben Seghir; and Embolo.
Conversely, Villa could welcome back John McGinn, who has recovered from a hamstring injury, although he may not start. Lucas Digne is expected to replace Ian Maatsen at left-back, while Leon Bailey is eager to return to the matchday squad, despite Jacob Ramsey's recent recovery from injury. Donyell Malen, a recent acquisition from Borussia Dortmund, did not feature last weekend but is poised to make his debut under Emery's guidance. Jhon Duran may also be rotated into the squad to provide rest for the in-form Ollie Watkins.
Aston Villa's predicted lineup against Monaco (4-2-3-1) is likely to include: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Minga, Digne; Kamara, Onana, Tielemans; Bailey, Duran, Rogers.
While Villa have displayed some inconsistency in domestic competitions, they have adapted well to the Champions League environment and can nearly secure their spot in the last 16 with a victory in this match. Emery's tactical acumen in high-pressure situations has proven effective, allowing Villa to elevate their performance when it matters most.
On Tuesday, they will encounter a dynamic and aggressive Monaco side, albeit one currently struggling for form. The hosts are expected to create chances, and Villa may face challenging moments. However, with Emery's expertise at the helm, they should be well-equipped to navigate this demanding European away fixture.