Aston Villa predicted lineup vs AS Monaco: Watkins to lead the charge in a 4-2-4-1 | OneFootball

Aston Villa head to Monaco's Stade Louis II on Tuesday for a decisive Champions League group stage encounter. Unai Emery's squad aims to secure their place in the round of 16, while the hosts desperately need points to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Villa's European journey and recent form

The Birmingham side has impressed in their Champions League campaign, accumulating 13 points from six matches. Their victories against European giants Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig highlighted their capabilities at this level. The defence has stayed strong with four clean sheets, though a loss to Club Brugge marks their only stumble in the competition.

Villa's domestic form mirrors their European success, as shown by their recent 2-2 draw with Arsenal that stretched their unbeaten Premier League run to five games. Wins over Everton and West Ham United have boosted confidence within the squad. However, their away performances raise concerns, with six losses in nine matches across all competitions. The recent draw at the Emirates Stadium and a win at Goodison Park offer glimpses of improvement on the road. Emery's extensive European experience could prove valuable against a struggling Monaco team.

Monaco's decline and injury concerns

The French side started brilliantly this season, going unbeaten in their first 10 games and claiming a memorable 2-1 win over Barcelona. However, their form has dipped significantly, managing just one win in their last eight matches across all competitions. Back-to-back Champions League losses to Benfica and Arsenal have left Adi Hütter's team in a precarious position, needing positive results from their final two group games.

The injury list compounds Monaco's problems. Folarin Balogun, George Ilenikhena, and Krepin Diatta are confirmed absentees, while Wilfried Singo and Dennis Zakaria remain doubtful. Their only consolation lies in their strong European home record, with just one defeat at Stade Louis II in continental competitions.

Team news and predicted lineup

Aston Villa face their own selection challenges. Diego Carlos misses out through suspension, while Pau Torres, Ross Barkley, and Amadou Onana battle fitness concerns. John McGinn has returned to training but likely won't start. New signing Donyell Malen, acquired from Borussia Dortmund, could make his debut.

Given Villa's impressive European performances and Monaco's recent difficulties, the English side appears better positioned to claim a crucial victory. Their midfield strength could prove decisive in determining the outcome of this vital clash.