Arsenal travel to Villa Park on Saturday, facing a potential defensive crisis. Mikel Arteta’s side restored their five-point lead at the top of the table with a win over Brentford.
However, the victory came at a cost, leaving the manager with a depleted backline for this crucial fixture. The Gunners have been superb away from home, losing just once in their last 21 road trips. Furthermore, they have historically enjoyed success at Villa Park, winning 15 Premier League games there.
To secure another win, they will need to rely on their aerial strength. Arsenal have scored eight of their last 13 away goals from headers, while Villa have conceded four of their last six home goals via the same route.
Arsenal team news
Mikel Arteta is navigating a severe injury situation in defence. William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães remain major doubts after missing the midweek game. Adding to the woes, Cristhian Mosquera suffered an ankle injury against Brentford.
Therefore, a backline of Ben White, Jurrien Timber, Piero Hincapié, and Riccardo Calafiori is expected. In midfield, Declan Rice is a doubt with a calf issue, so Mikel Merino could start alongside Martin Zubimendi and Martin Ødegaard. Viktor Gyökeres is set to return to lead the attack after resting in midweek.
Arsenal predicted Lineup
Arsenal predicted XI: Raya; White, Timber, Hincapié, Calafiori; Ødegaard, Zubimendi, Merino; Saka, Gyökeres, Martinelli
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League fixture takes place at Villa Park on Saturday, 6 December 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 12:30 pm GMT.
How to watch Aston Villa vs Arsenal?
The match will air live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Coverage starts at 11:30 am GMT.
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