venue: Villa Park
Kick off Time: Aug 31, 2026 8.00pm
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Arsenal News
Arsenal have made an impeccable start to the 2026-27 season, claiming one trophy, two victories, scoring six goals and conceding zero across their opening fixtures. Their dominant win over Coventry has further solidified their status as Premier League title favourites, especially with rival title contenders dropping points early on.
Mikel Arteta’s side have silenced criticism of over-reliance on set pieces, netting three open-play goals at the Emirates. Arteta recently became the fifth-fastest manager to secure 150 Premier League wins. Historically, Arsenal are chasing a landmark achievement: a fifth consecutive opening away victory for the first time in the club’s 140-year history, having kept clean sheets in all four previous opening away wins.
New £55 million signing Ezri Konsa is eligible to make his debut against his former club Aston Villa but is expected to start on the bench. Bruno Guimaraes is in contention after recovering from a minor groin problem. However, Jurrien Timber has a similar groin issue and remains sidelined, while William Saliba is out long-term with a back injury.
Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus are set to be excluded from the squad amid ongoing transfer speculation. Martinelli has agreed personal terms with Al-Hilal for a £55.6 million record transfer deal.
Aston Villa News:
Aston Villa suffered a disastrous opening-game defeat against Brighton in the new Premier League season, falling into the relegation zone after a chaotic performance filled with individual mistakes, an own goal and a debut red card for Joao Gomes.
Looking to bounce back immediately, Villa have completed two high-profile deadline signings to strengthen the squad: Leon Goretzka and Nicolas Jackson, both fully registered and available to face Arsenal.
The Lions boast an impressive recent home record against reigning Premier League champions, securing victories over the title holders in the past three consecutive seasons. Last term, Villa beat Arsenal at home before suffering a heavy 1-4 defeat in the reverse fixture.
Villa face multiple absences and suspensions for this clash. Joao Gomes serves the first game of a three-match ban for violent conduct. Amadou Onana is ruled out with a long-term knee injury. Young players Johan Manzambi and Brian Madjo will also remain sidelined until September.