Aston Villa travel to Bournemouth on Saturday while they seek to secure their first-ever top-flight double over the Cherries.
The Lions have moved through a difficult domestic spell, losing three of their last six matches. However, manager Unai Emery oversees a side that still sits third in the table. Villa recently secured an emphatic 4–0 win in the reverse fixture. They arrive in Dorset with the division’s second-best away record. A victory today would strengthen their grip on a Champions League qualification spot.
Aston Villa Team News
Unai Emery manages a squad boosted by the return of its most clinical finisher. Notably, Ollie Watkins has returned to full training and is expected to start. Amadou Onana is also fit to bolster the midfield engine room. Consequently, the manager has more options despite missing John McGinn and Youri Tielemans. Morgan Rogers remains the primary goal threat after his strikes earned Villa 11 points this term.
Emiliano Martínez will start in goal behind a backline featuring Pau Torres and Ezri Konsa. Matty Cash and Ian Maatsen will provide attacking impetus from the full-back roles. In midfield, Douglas Luiz will partner the returning Onana. Jadon Sancho and Emiliano Buendía are expected to provide the creative spark from wide positions. Tammy Abraham remains an option to lead the line if Watkins is not fully fit.
Aston Villa Predicted Lineup
Aston Villa predicted XI: Martínez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Maatsen; Onana, Luiz; Sancho, Rogers, Buendía; Abraham
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League fixture takes place at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday, 7 February 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 GMT.
How to watch Bournemouth vs Aston Villa?
The match will not be broadcast live in the UK due to the blackout. Fans can follow live audio commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live. Extended highlights will air on Match of the Day on BBC One at 22:25 GMT.
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