Aston Villa facing suspension and injury crisis ahead of Arsenal clash

The aftermath of the intense match against Bayern Munich still hangs over, but attention must now shift to the impending visit of Unai Emery’s side as the match approaches.

Arteta faces the challenge of managing his players’ minutes carefully over the coming weeks while maintaining competitiveness across all fixtures. Fortunately, several key players are set to return at a crucial juncture, although the absence of Jurrien Timber remains a concern.

On the other hand, Emery is grappling with a midfield crisis ahead of the weekend fixture. In the closing moments of Villa’s recent clash with Brentford, Douglas Luiz received his tenth booking of the season, resulting in a two-match suspension that sidelines him for the trip to the Emirates Stadium. Luiz, a vital figure in Villa’s lineup alongside Ollie Watkins and Emi Martinez, has been consistently present, missing only one Premier League game due to suspension.

In Luiz’s absence against Brentford, Emery turned to a midfield duo of John McGinn and Boubacar Kamara. However, Kamara has since suffered a severe knee injury, further complicating Villa’s midfield options. With Jacob Ramsey also sidelined, the responsibility may fall on Youri Tielemans to partner McGinn, potentially alongside 20-year-old Tim Iroegbunam, who has limited Premier League experience.

Emery confirmed ahead of the UEFA Conference League quarter-final fixture against Lille that Tyrone Mings and Emiliano Buendia are still out with injuries.

“The injured players we have are Tyrone Mings and Emi Buendia. They are progressing well, starting to be on the field. Kamara as well and Jacob Ramsey are out for the rest of the season.”

“In contrast, Arsenal boasts a wealth of midfield options, including Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, Jorginho, Martin Odegaard, Emile Smith Rowe, Kai Havertz, and Fabio Vieira. Arteta’s abundance of choices presents a strategic advantage that he aims to capitalize on come Sunday’s clash against Villa.”