The Premier League returns with a high-stakes showdown between Liverpool and Aston Villa this weekend at Anfield. While Liverpool look to bounce back from an uncharacteristic defeat, Aston Villa face a challenging test without several influential players. Squad depth, tactical tweaks, and injury woes are set to shape this encounter under the Saturday night lights.

Aston Villa Hampered by Injuries in Forward and Midfield Areas

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery confirmed that four senior players will be missing from the trip to Liverpool, creating significant concerns in attack and midfield.

Emi Buendia Sidelined: A Major Blow for Creativity

Emiliano Buendia, Villa’s joint-top scorer this season alongside John McGinn, is unavailable. With three goals and two assists, the Argentine has been Villa’s primary creative spark, particularly in the final third. His injury deprives the team of their most inventive link between midfield and attack — something Emery acknowledged during the pre-match press conference.

Buendia’s ability to find pockets of space and unlock tight defenses would have been vital at Anfield. Now, Villa must adapt.

Harvey Elliott Ineligible Due to Loan Agreement

Another absentee is Harvey Elliott, who joined Villa on loan from Liverpool. Despite limited playing time so far, Elliott could have benefited from Buendia’s absence, but Premier League loan rules prevent him from featuring against his parent club.

Andres Garcia and Youri Tielemans Also Out

Full-back Andres Garcia and midfielder Youri Tielemans are also unavailable. Tielemans, known for his composure and quality in high-pressure matches, notably scored at Anfield in last year’s thrilling 2-2 draw. Without him and Buendia, Villa’s attacking options in the No. 10 role are drastically reduced.

Expected Villa Lineup: How Emery Might Adjust

With limited creative outlets, Unai Emery could deploy Morgan Rogers in a central role in Buendia’s absence, supported by Jadon Sancho on the left, and either John McGinn or Evann Guessand on the right. Villa’s defensive structure remains largely intact, with Emi Martinez, Lucas Digne, Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, and Pau Torres expected to start.

Here’s the predicted Aston Villa XI:
Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Kamara, Onana; McGinn, Rogers, Sancho; Watkins

Ollie Watkins, one of the league’s most consistent forwards, will shoulder much of the attacking burden as Villa chase a result.

Liverpool Rotation Expected After Palace Defeat

Liverpool, meanwhile, head into this fixture eager to recover from a surprising 3-0 loss to Crystal Palace. Manager Arne Slot has suggested several changes might be on the cards, particularly given absences including Alexander Isak, Curtis Jones, Jeremie Frimpong, Giovanni Leoni, and first-choice goalkeeper Alisson.

Only Andrew Robertson is expected to retain his place after limited minutes in midweek Carabao Cup action. The Scot should anchor a refreshed starting XI, as Slot calls on Liverpool’s deep squad to turn the tide.

The Bigger Picture: Where the Match Could Be Won

This match has all the makings of a tactical chess match. With Aston Villa fielding a weakened creative midfield and Liverpool seeking redemption, the outcome may hinge on who controls the tempo early on.

For Villa, maintaining a solid structure and providing consistent service to Watkins will be paramount. For Liverpool, swift transitions and fresh legs in midfield could prove decisive.

Final Thoughts

With Aston Villa missing four key players and Liverpool eager to show a response in front of their home crowd, this match promises intensity and fine margins. Villa will need near-perfect execution to walk away with points, while Liverpool look to reset momentum as the busy winter schedule approaches.