Emery’s first Villa game

Aston Villa and Manchester United will meet in a Premier League classic at Villa Park this weekend with Unai Emery set to play out his first game in charge of the Midlands club and his first in England since leaving his post as Arsenal manager a few seasons back.

Emery has been on the rise with Villarreal since departing the Gunners. He has managed to guide them to higher finishes than normal in La Liga, while also beating Manchester United in the Europa League final and reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League last season too.

He does, however, head back into the Premier League with his new side in terrible form. Villa did manage to bounce back from the 3-0 loss to Fulham that saw Steven Gerrard sacked after the game, as they went on to beat Brentford 4-0 after a brace from Danny Ings and goals from Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailey.

On the other hand, the Villains lost immediately after that win over the Bees, when Newcastle United destroyed them 4-0 at St. James’ Park over the past weekend.

United won in midweek against Real Sociedad, as Alejandro Garnacho scored his first senior goals thanks to a well-taken effort, although this was not enough to see the club top the group, with Sociedad doing so on goals difference.

At the same time, Erik ten Hag’s side have been struggling with injuries and suspensions this campaign and now cannot call on Bruno Fernandes for this game after his yellow card in the win over West Ham.

Emery’s first Villa game

Antony may be able to return here alongside Jadon Sancho, who has been missing with a fever in the past few games. Brandon Williams and former man, Axel Tuanzebe, are both still out until before Christmas, while Raphael Varane won’t not play before the World Cup, but he should be fit to play in Qatar.

As for Villa, Boubacar Kamara is going to miss this game, while Diego Carlos is out until the new year. Emi Martinez is set to miss this one with concussion and he will be replaced by Robin Olsen in goal.