Aston Villa vs Arsenal: Match Preview, Latest Team News and How to Watch | OneFootball

Match Preview: Arsenal facing major Aston Villa test

Aston Villa and Arsenal meet this weekend in a fixture carrying major Premier League implications, with both clubs hitting the stretch of December in contrasting rhythms but equally sharp form. Arsenal still occupy top spot after a composed 2-0 win against Brentford in midweek, restoring their five point cushion at the summit. Manchester City’s wild 5-4 triumph at Fulham briefly applied pressure, yet Mikel Arteta’s players continue to set the tempo as the festive schedule approaches.

Villa’s midweek outing showcased their own attacking verve. Trailing 2-0 inside half an hour at Brighton after goals from Jan Paul van Hecke and a Pau Torres own goal, Unai Emery’s side mounted a spirited comeback. Ollie Watkins delivered a decisive brace and further efforts from Amadou Onana and Donyell Malen sealed a thrilling 4-3 win. That result moved Villa up to third place, just one point behind City and six behind Arsenal as they prepare for this heavyweight meeting.

Key Information for Matchday

Aston Villa vs Arsenal kicks off at 12.30pm GMT on Saturday, December 6 2025, with Villa Park hosting what promises to be a vibrant occasion. In the UK, live television coverage begins at 11.30am GMT on TNT Sports 1. TNT Sports subscribers can also follow the action online through the Discovery+ app and website. 

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Injury Updates and Squad Concerns

Villa carry several notable injury worries. Emi Martinez is the headline concern after withdrawing from the Brighton match during the warm-up due to a lower back issue. Emery commended Marco Bizot’s performance in his absence, although the manager admitted uncertainty regarding Martinez’s availability for Arsenal.

Ross Barkley remains sidelined with a knee injury until February and Tyrone Mings faces a longer recovery from a thigh problem. On Arsenal’s side, Arteta has issues of his own, including concerns about Mosquera, who came off at half time with what Arteta described as “either the knee or ankle.” The manager added that the problem appeared “more complicated.”

Arteta provided further updates, saying, “We have another training session in the afternoon. Every hour is going to be very important to see the availability. So, after that, we will decide who travels.”

William Saliba is battling an ankle niggle while Kai Havertz is still unavailable. Gabriel is ruled out for the longer term. Leandro Trossard, however, is edging closer to a return, with Arteta expecting him back in “a matter of days.”

Prediction and Expected Contest

Arsenal’s recent history at Villa Park offers reasons for confidence, their last visit resulting in a 2-0 win. Yet Villa’s formidable home performances and six match winning streak in the Premier League, excluding Arsenal’s own form, underline the scale of the challenge.

Both teams favour proactive, front-foot football, suggesting an open contest defined by tempo and ambition. With attacking threats on both sides, this fixture appears primed for goals and late drama. A high scoring encounter feels likely, and a draw seems a fair forecast.

Prediction, 2-2