Aston Villa news

January is a notoriously bad time for buyers because nobody ever wants to sell top talent midway through the season. There are, however, exceptions to the rule. Some clubs need to raise funds to balance the books, while others can be left with not option but to unload an unhappy player who has made it clear that he wants to join a stronger side.

Enigmatic Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has seen his behaviour criticised again, with supposed “arrogance” on the Argentine’s part being called out by an international goalkeeping rival. Uruguayan shot-stopper Sergio Rochet does not “like the way” a fellow South American is - despite the World Cup winner being considered “phenomenal” at his job.

Our expert offers his best Aston Villa vs Brentford Predictions, Lineups, Odds & Tips for their Premier League match this afternoon (01/02/2026)

Amadou Onana has cast doubt over his long-term future at Aston Villa after openly admitting that securing a transfer to a "world-class club" remains a major career goal. The Belgian midfielder, who joined from Everton in 2024, insisted he has matured under Unai Emery but made it clear he sees his time in the Midlands as a stepping stone to the very top of the game.

Watch the Europa League knockout phase play-off draw live, plus team seeding information and more.

Unai Emery has responded to speculation suggesting that he is a leading contender to succeed Xabi Alonso as manager of Real Madrid. The Blancos are currently working under the tutelage of interim head coach Alvaro Arbeloa. Various names have been added to the mix at the Bernabeu, with Aston Villa boss Emery said to be climbing that list.

Aston Villa’s Premier League title charge has been dealt a potential hammer blow after star striker Ollie Watkins limped off with a hamstring injury during Thursday's Europa League tie. Manager Unai Emery is facing intense scrutiny for risking his talisman in a 'dead rubber' against RB Salzburg, with pundits questioning why the England international was not rested ahead of a crucial run of domestic fixtures.

Our expert offers his best Aston Villa vs Salzburg Predictions, Lineups, Odds & Tips for their Europa League clash this evening (29/01/2026)

The Premier League is firmly on course to gain a fifth Champions League place for next season after a dominant display in Europe. With five English clubs storming into the last 16 and all nine representatives still active across the three competitions, the coefficient rankings show England miles clear of rivals Italy and Spain, sparking a frantic domestic battle for the lucrative extra berth.

How to watch the Europa League match between Aston Villa and Salzburg, as well as kick-off time and team news.

Aston Villa have announced the return of Douglas Luiz on loan from Juventus for the rest of the season. The Brazil international swapped Villa for Juve in the summer of 2024 for £42 million ($58m), but the 27-year-old has endured a difficult 18 months since then. After failing to fire at the Italian side, his loan stint at Nottingham Forest hasn't worked either. Now, he is back with Unai Emery's side.

City cut the deficit to Arsenal from seven points to four. However, their xG and xGA data indicate they may already be overperforming this season.

Douglas Luiz is set for a sensational return to Aston Villa after agreeing a loan deal until the end of the season. The move will see his nightmare spell at Nottingham Forest cut short, with Unai Emery beating Chelsea to the signing of the Juventus midfielder. The Brazilian has agreed terms to help cover a midfield injury crisis at Villa Park, with the deal including an option to make the transfer permanent next summer.