Aston Villa will be braced for a challenge against Manchester City tomorrow night as Unai Emery prepares to make some changes ahead of the trip to the Etihad.
After beating Wolves just four days prior, Aston Villa return to action in the Premier League to face a different level of challenge in Manchester City away.
The Cityzens haven’t lost at the Etihad since 2022, giving the Villans a hefty battle to combat however, Unai Emery’s side will be wary of some key absences from the hosts.
That being said, Villa will be without both Jacob Ramsey and star talisman Ollie Watkins due to injury, forcing the manager to reconsider his starting XI.
Aston Villa predicted lineup vs Manchester City
Emiliano Martinez
It’s set to be a busy afternoon for Aston Villa’s number one Emi Martinez who will be the only choice to start between the sticks against Manchester City.
Lucas Digne
One change that Emery could make is at left-back considering Alex Moreno’s poor display against Wolves last week. Lucas Digne could make a statement by returning to the starting XI against the reigning champions.
Pau Torres
Arguably one of Villa’s most important players ahead of the trip to the Etihad, Pau Torres will be tasked with the duty of keeping Erling Haaland at bay.
Diego Carlos
Adding strength to Torres’ composure is Diego Carlos, who could earn his second consecutive start in the league after reclaiming his spot against Wolves last week.
Ezri Konsa
Undoubtedly Emery’s first choice at right-back is Ezri Konsa, who will look to record another strong performance in what has been a memorable few weeks for the 26-year-old.
Morgan Rogers
With Jacob Ramsey still out injured, Morgan Rogers could once again show his worth as he prepares to come up against his former club. The 21-year-old was hailed for his direct display against Wolves.
Youri Tielemans
It’s poised to be a difficult afternoon for Youri Tielemans, who will need to put his attacking mind aside to fully immerse himself in what is braced to be a decisive battle in midfield against arguably the world’s best defensive midfielder.
Douglas Luiz
Speaking of having the task of maintaining Rodri, Douglas Luiz will need to be at his best to limit the threat that the Spaniard possesses as he also looks to impress his former club.
Leon Bailey
Leon Bailey will look to repeat his display from December against City where he scored the decisive goal to hand his side the three points at Villa Park.
Moussa Diaby
In the absence of Ollie Watkins and given Manchester City’s defensive injuries, Moussa Diaby will hope to have another influential game after scoring and assisting against Wolves on Saturday.
Jhon Duran
With Watkins confirmed to be out of contention, it will be a huge day for Jhon Duran, who will be expected to fill the Englishman’s boots against the treble winners.
Hailed for his “erratic” energy by journalist Jacob Tanswell, the 20-year-old could use his tireless aura to get the better of City’s wilted back line.
Full Aston Villa XI vs Man City
Martinez; Digne, Torres, Carlos, Konsa; Rogers, Tielemans, Luiz, Bailey; Diaby, Duran
