Aston Villa host Red Bull Salzburg at Villa Park this Thursday, aiming to conclude their Europa League league phase campaign on a high note.
Unai Emery’s side sits comfortably in second place, having already secured automatic qualification for the Round of 16. Although a solitary defeat to Go Ahead Eagles mars their record, Villa have otherwise dominated, winning six of their seven fixtures. With a top-eight finish guaranteed, the pressure lifts, granting Emery the luxury of rotation.
He intends to rest key starters ahead of crucial domestic fixtures. However, the objective remains clear: extend a formidable home record. Villa have transformed their ground into a fortress, winning all three European home matches this season. A victory tonight ensures they enter the knockout stages with maximum momentum.
Aston Villa Team News
Unai Emery navigates a significant midfield crisis. A severe ankle injury sustained against Newcastle rules out Youri Tielemans for the foreseeable future. He joins John McGinn and Boubacar Kamara on the sidelines. Consequently, Emery looks to his squad depth, handing opportunities to fringe players and promising youngsters.
In goal, Marco Bizot steps in for Emiliano Martínez, affording the Argentine a deserved rest. Tyrone Mings leads the defence, partnering winter signing Victor Lindelöf. Further forward, Amadou Onana anchors the midfield alongside Lamare Bogarde. Finally, Jadon Sancho and Emiliano Buendía provide the creativity to support lone striker Evann Guessand.
Aston Villa Predicted Lineup
Aston Villa predicted XI: Bizot; Garcia, Lindelöf, Mings, Digne; Bogarde, Onana, Hemmings; Sancho, Guessand, Buendía
When will the match kick off?
The Europa League league-phase fixture takes place at Villa Park on Thursday, 29 January 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 GMT.
How to watch Aston Villa vs Red Bull Salzburg?
In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 2. Fans can also stream the action via the discovery+ app.
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