Aston Villa vs Arsenal: Premier League Match Preview (December 6, 2025)

Aston Villa are riding an eight-game winning streak across all competitions, including a thrilling 4-3 comeback victory over Brighton in midweek.

However, they face uncertainty in goal: Emiliano Martínez is a late fitness test after missing training with a back issue, potentially handing a start to Robin Olsen or Viljami Sinisalo.

Out: Tyrone Mings (thigh, return ~January 3, 2026); Ross Barkley (knee, longer-term); possibly Ezri Konsa (calf tightness from international duty) and Amadou Onana (minor knock).

Doubts: Matty Cash (minor injury from Poland duty).

Villa's attack remains potent, with Watkins (top scorer) and Morgan Rogers (two goals in five games) in form.

Arteta's league leaders are hit harder, particularly in defense, where they've conceded just seven goals all season despite the absences.

The 2-0 Brentford win exposed vulnerabilities, with two more players limping off. 

Friday's session brought cautious optimism, but Arteta stressed: "Every hour is important—we'll decide who travels after training." Their unbeaten run (18 games) relies on rotation, but the festive schedule looms large.

Out: Kai Havertz (knee setback, return ~December 30); Gabriel Magalhães (thigh/groin, ~December 27); Leandro Trossard (thigh/ankle, days away); Cristhian Mosquera (ankle, 6-8 weeks).

Doubts: William Saliba (recovering knock, likely fit); Declan Rice (late withdrawal vs. Brentford, calf but expected available); Riccardo Calafiori (physical discomfort).

No suspensions. Saka and Eberechi Eze return from international breaks.