Aston Villa predicted lineup vs Nottingham Forest: Emery to rotate before PSG? | OneFootball

Aston Villa produced a commanding 3-0 win away at Brighton on Wednesday night in the Premier League, extending their winning streak to six matches in all competitions. Goals from Marcus Rashford, Marco Asensio, and Donyell Malen sealed the result at the Amex Stadium as Unai Emery’s side showed no signs of slowing down.

With a crucial UEFA Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain looming midweek, the Villans now turn their attention back to domestic duties as they host Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The reverse fixture at the City Ground ended in a 2-1 defeat for Villa. With a win, they have the chance to leapfrog Newcastle into sixth place, at least temporarily.

Given the intensity of the upcoming European fixture, Unai Emery is expected to rotate his squad, offering opportunities to some fringe players while maintaining a strong core.

Aston Villa's predicted lineup in the Premier League vs Nottingham Forest (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez

Arguably one of the top goalkeepers in the world, Martínez made four vital saves against Brighton. The Argentine remains undroppable and will keep his place between the sticks.

Right-Back: Andrés García

Matty Cash has been Emery’s first-choice right-back, but he was subbed off late against Brighton. With the Champions League looming, García could be handed a start to rest Cash.

Centre-Back: Ezri Konsa

Konsa has been ever-present this season, among the top four in appearances for Villa. After starting for England during the international break and in Villa's last two, he’s expected to start once more.

Centre-Back: Tyrone Mings

Mings was an unused substitute against Brighton, having played the full 90 in the FA Cup prior. With Pau Torres possibly being rested for midweek, Mings is a strong candidate to return to the lineup.

Left-Back: Ian Maatsen

Lucas Digne played the full 90 in both the FA Cup and Premier League this week. To preserve his energy for midweek, Maatsen could be given a rare opportunity.

Central Defensive Midfield: Amadou Onana

The former Everton man impressed early in the season but has recently dropped out of the starting XI. Saturday may be the ideal time for him to return as part of Emery’s rotation.

Central Defensive Midfield: Youri Tielemans

Tielemans has made the most starts under Emery this season. Subbed off early in the last two games, he’s expected to start again and provide stability in midfield.

Left Attacking Midfield: Morgan Rogers

The England international has been a regular starter and played a key role against Brighton, assisting twice. He should retain his place on the left flank.

Central Attacking Midfield: Marco Asensio

Asensio’s impact since arriving in January has been massive. His goal at the Amex was his eighth for the club, and after coming off the bench midweek, he’s likely to return to the starting XI.

Right Attacking Midfield: Jacob Ramsey

Ramsey has featured across the front line in recent matches and started the last two. With Emery likely to rest a few key players, expect Ramsey to retain his place.

Centre-Forward: Ollie Watkins

The England international missed national team duty due to an injury but has come off the bench in Villa’s last two matches. While Marcus Rashford is in good form, Emery may choose to rest him ahead of Wednesday’s clash, especially given Rashford’s strong record against the French side. That would allow Watkins to return to the starting XI.