Aston Villa face Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Sunday night, and Unai Emery has named his starting line-up for the encounter.
Speculation has been rife over potential incomings and outgoings ahead of the transfer deadline, and the expectation was that it could have an impact on Emery’s decision-making this weekend.
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Both Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana were ruled out due to injury, but there was better news with Ezri Konsa available again after serving his suspension last weekend.
Changes were expected after that disappointing defeat to Brentford last time out, and as seen in the club’s post below, Emery has opted to make five changes, with Marco Bizot, Konsa, Ian Maatsen, Donyell Malen and Evann Guessand coming in to replace Emiliano Martinez, Pau Torres, Lucas Digne, Amadou Onana and Boubacar Kamara.
Martinez is not included in the matchday squad at all amid ongoing speculation over his future.
It’s a strong starting XI for Villa with a much-needed injection of energy, pace and width with the inclusion of Maatsen, Malen and Guessand, and that hopefully gives us a more positive and front-foot approach to the game with their attacking qualities.
Naturally, with our injury absentees and lack of signings this summer, the bench is certainly looking weakened as things stand as we’ll hopefully bring in reinforcements in the next 24 hours, but there could be opportunities for our talented youngsters to get minutes if the game goes our way.
It’s a crucial game for Villa given our poor start to the season, and so there are three important points up for grabs ahead of the international break, and hopefully we’re able to claim them all.
Tonight’s XI to face Crystal Palace ✊ #AVLCRY pic.twitter.com/8KdkfL6YmV
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) August 31, 2025
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