As Aston Villa prepare to host Juventus in a crucial Champions League encounter, both teams are grappling with significant injury concerns that could shape the outcome of the match. Unai Emery’s Aston Villa side has been hit hard by recent injuries, with Jacob Ramsey sidelined due to a hamstring issue and Amadou Onana out with a foot injury. Boubacar Kamara and Ezri Konsa are also likely to miss the Juventus fixture, leading to the potential inclusion of Ross Barkley and Matty Cash in midfield and defense.
In attack, Ollie Watkins, who recently scored against Crystal Palace, faces competition from Jhon Duran. The Colombian striker has impressed in Champions League home games, netting in both of his appearances at Villa Park this season.
The Italian giants are also dealing with their fair share of fitness issues. Star striker Dusan Vlahovic is doubtful with a thigh problem after limping out of Serbia’s recent draw with Denmark. Arkadiusz Milik, Vlahovic’s usual deputy, is out until next year. Defensive mainstays Bremer and Juan Cabal are long-term absentees due to ACL injuries, while Nico Gonzalez is unavailable with a thigh injury. Additionally, former Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz and Weston McKennie are questionable for the match due to muscle concerns.
Aston Villa (4-2-3-1): Martinez; Cash, Carlos, Torres, Digne; Barkley, Tielemans; Bailey, Rogers, McGinn; Watkins
Juventus (4-2-3-1): Di Gregorio; Savona, Kalulu, Gatti, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Thuram; Conceicao, Koopmeiners, Yildiz; Weah
