Can Villa silence Forest before ‘Arsenal hangover’ sets in? | OneFootball

Aston Villa return to Villa Park on Saturday, still absorbing a chastening defeat at Arsenal.

The 4-1 loss at the Emirates Stadium ended an 11-game winning run and punctured the sense of inevitability that had surrounded Villa’s surge up the table.

However, the result does not redefine their season, with Unai Emery’s side still firmly in control of third place and well positioned to mount a sustained challenge.

Villa’s response now matters more than the defeat itself, with the manner of their reaction likely to shape the next phase of their campaign.

Home form offers reassurance, with Villa Park having become one of the league’s most reliable venues over recent months.

Emery’s side have built their position through consistency rather than moments, and that platform remains intact despite the setback in London.

There is also renewed motivation, with Manchester City still within touching distance above them and little margin for complacency if Villa are to keep pressure on second place.

Getting back to winning ways quickly is essential, both to reassert control over third and to signal that the Arsenal defeat was an interruption rather than a turning point.

Forest have endured a difficult run that has dragged them back towards the lower reaches of the table.

Recent defeats have exposed familiar problems, particularly a lack of cutting edge and an inability to convert possession into goals.

However, Forest will view this fixture as an opportunity, arriving just as Villa are seeking to steady themselves after a bruising night.

The visitors are likely to test Villa’s composure, especially in the early stages, knowing that uncertainty can linger after a heavy defeat.

Forest have also shown this season that they can be competitive against stronger opposition when able to disrupt rhythm and exploit transitions.

Villa will expect to control the contest, but patience will be required against a side eager to capitalise on any lingering fragility.

Ollie Watkins’ role remains central, with his movement and finishing key to restoring attacking authority after missed chances proved costly against Arsenal.

Emery will demand sharper defensive organisation, particularly in moments where Villa lost structure once the game began to slip away midweek.

Resilience and discipline will be essential for Forest, with survival still the priority amid a congested lower half of the table.

If Villa respond with clarity and control, their season remains firmly on track, but any hesitation would invite Forest into a contest rich in intrigue.