Arsenal face an Aston Villa side without suspended midfielder João Gomes next Monday, while Ollie Watkins’ involvement remains uncertain following a chaotic 4-0 defeat at Brighton. Aston Villa vs Arsenal team news is already dominated by injuries, transfer speculation and Gomes’ costly red card.
Unai Emery’s side conceded four times inside 31 minutes at the Amex Stadium before Gomes received a straight red card on his Premier League debut.
Gomes was dismissed for kicking out at Brighton forward Georginio Rutter. His suspension means Villa will be without their £38million summer signing when Arsenal visit Villa Park on 31 August.
Arsenal supporters can find the television details, kick-off time and streaming information in our guide to watching Aston Villa vs Arsenal.
It gets even worse for Aston Villa 😳
João Gomes is SENT OFF! 🟥 pic.twitter.com/1LioRi06i1
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 23, 2026
Aston Villa vs Arsenal team news: Watkins uncertainty grows
Watkins was absent against Brighton while Al Hilal continue their attempts to sign the England international.
Emery offered little clarity when questioned about his striker’s omission. Sky Sports reported that Watkins is keen on a move to Saudi Arabia, although Villa have rejected at least one offer.
“This question is for him,” Emery said. “I can answer only with my silence.”
Villa were already without injured forwards Brian Madjo and Tammy Abraham against Brighton. Emery confirmed Madjo would need approximately another fortnight to recover, effectively ruling him out against Arsenal.
Abraham’s return date remains unclear, while Johan Manzambi is expected to need even longer than Madjo before becoming available.
The Guardian reported that Emery selected Emiliano Buendía as an emergency striker because of his shortage of attacking options.
Ezri Konsa could face former Aston Villa teammates
Monday’s fixture could also provide Ezri Konsa with an immediate reunion following his transfer from Villa to Arsenal.
Konsa’s arrival gives Mikel Arteta another defensive option while William Saliba and Jurriën Timber remain sidelined. ReadArsenal has examined the statistic behind Arsenal’s move for Konsa.
Arsenal also hope Bruno Guimarães can recover from the groin problem that ruled him out of Friday’s 3-0 victory over Coventry City.
Arteta has suggested the Brazilian should not face an extended absence, making Villa Park a possible return date. Our latest Arsenal injury update covers Guimarães, Timber and Saliba.
Arsenal travel to Villa Park on Monday, 31 August, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm BST.
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