Need to know
Aston Villa are set to return to Villa Park for a Champions League encounter
A general view of the North Stand under construction at Villa Park
Aston Villa are rebuilding the North Stand at Villa Park(Image: Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
Aston Villa's plans for Villa Park explained
Temporary capacity and expansion timeline: Aston Villa have temporarily reduced Villa Park's overall capacity to approximately 37,000 for the 2026/27 season due to the closure of the North Stand. This strategic closure will facilitate major construction to increase the stadium's final capacity to more than 50,000, with the redevelopment project scheduled for completion ahead of the 2027/28 campaign. The club's timeline aims to ensure all upgrades are finalised well in advance of the venue hosting matches during Euro 2028.
Structural changes to the North Stand: Significant demolition work has already commenced, with the original roof completely removed to pave the way for major internal foundation work. These extensive preparations are necessary before installing new structural wings that will ultimately define the stand's architectural shape.
Trinity Road changes: Over the summer break, almost every seat in the Trinity Road Stand was removed and replaced to reconfigure the seating layout for improved comfort. A revamped press box has also been installed, while a new player tunnel is set to be constructed in the corner where the Trinity Road Stand will meet the redeveloped North Stand.
Premium hospitality: As part of a broader strategy to elevate the premium services available to matchday guests, hospitality suite 'The Cross by Tom Sellers' has been added. Situated in the corner between the iconic Holte End and the Trinity Road Stand, the menu has been designed by the two-Michelin-starred chef, offering a gourmet dining experience for corporate attendees.
Away supporter allocation: Villa are required to provide a minimum of 3,000 tickets for away supporters in the Premier League, as the stadium still exceeds the 30,000 capacity threshold, even without the North Stand. However, in the Champions League, clubs are required to offer a minimum of five per cent of their overall capacity, which would be around 1,800 fans under Villa Park's reduced capacity.
Upcoming match against Fenerbahce: Villa Park will be on full display during the club's next home match, as Emery's side take on Turkish giants Fenerbahce. The match is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, October 14, with kick-off slated for 8pm.