Aston Villa XI vs Sunderland – Predicted lineup and team news

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·21 September 2025

Aston Villa XI vs Sunderland – Predicted lineup and team news

The pressure is mounting on Unai Emery as he takes his Aston Villa side to Sunderland on Sunday, desperate to end a historically poor start to the season.

The Villans are in the relegation zone, having failed to score in their opening four league games, a miserable run compounded by a midweek cup exit that has left confidence at rock bottom.

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This weekend’s encounter against a high-flying promoted side presents a massive test of character for the visiting players. However, Emery can draw on his own exceptional Premier League record.

The Basque native will be looking to make Sunderland the 26th different opponent out of 28 he has beaten while managing in England. He will be demanding a reaction from his team as they desperately for the first goal and win of the campaign.

Aston Villa XI vs Sunderland – Predicted lineup and team news

Aston Villa team news

Unai Emery’s selection is complicated by a midfield injury crisis, with both Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans ruled out. The manager has, however, received a significant boost with the timely return of Boubacar Kamara, who is expected to start.

Harvey Elliott, who scored Villa‘s only goal of the season in their League Cup defeat Brentford, is pushing for his first top-flight start since joining on loan from Liverpool. He will be tasked with providing service for striker Ollie Watkins, who has an excellent goalscoring record against promoted sides.

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