Aston Villa and Arsenal clash in a highly anticipated Premier League match at Villa Park, with significant implications for the top of the table. Arsenal, currently leading the league with 33 points, aim to extend their lead, while Aston Villa, in third place with 27 points, seek to close the gap. A victory for Villa would put them just three points behind the Gunners.
The match kicks off at 12:30 PM GMT. For viewers in the United States, the game starts at 7:30 a.m. ET/4:30 a.m. PT and will be broadcast on USA Network, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, and NBC Sports App. In the UK, the match will be available on TNT Sports.
Aston Villa enters the game in impressive form, having won their last six matches across all competitions. Their most recent victory was a dramatic 4-3 win against Brighton. Arsenal, on the other hand, are undefeated in their last 18 matches across all competitions. In their last match, Arsenal defeated Brentford 2-0.
Team news indicates potential concerns for both sides. Aston Villa's goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, is in doubt due to a back injury. Arsenal faces uncertainty over the fitness of Declan Rice, who suffered a calf issue in the game against Brentford. However, William Saliba and Leandro Trossard are expected to be available for selection. Cristhian Mosquera is likely to miss out due to an ankle injury.
Arsenal has a good record at Villa Park, winning 15 times in the Premier League, which is the joint-most they've won at any opponent's ground. Their most recent win at Villa Park was in August 2024, with a 2-0 victory. However, Aston Villa has been strong at home, losing only one of their last 25 Premier League home fixtures.
Unai Emery, the Aston Villa manager, will be looking to get one over his former club, Arsenal, who sacked him in 2019. In their last 108 matches in all competitions, Arsenal have not conceded more than two goals, marking the longest run by an English team in football league history. Meanwhile, Aston Villa has secured 16 victories in the Premier League since March, tying with Manchester City for the most in the league.
Predicted lineups suggest that Martinez may start in goal for Aston Villa, with a defense of Cash, Konsa, Torres and Digne. The midfield could consist of Kamara and Tielemans, with Malen, McGinn and Rogers supporting Watkins in attack. For Arsenal, the availability of Rice and Saliba will be crucial.
This match presents an opportunity for Arsenal to set a new club record for most Premier League wins at an opponent's ground. However, Aston Villa's current form and home record make them a formidable opponent.
