Arsenal are set for a tough test as they travel to face Aston Villa at Villa Park today, in a huge test of their title credentials.
Mikel Arteta’s side got off to a winning start with a 2-0 victory over Wolves on the opening day, but an away game against a strong Aston Villa side will prove to be a different test.
Aston Villa won 2-1 away at West Ham on the opening day, and Unai Emery will aim to continue his strong record over his former club, with Arsenal losing home and away to Villa last season.
Arsenal arguably lost the title in April with a 2-0 defeat at home to Villa, which was the only defeat they suffered in 18 games, and this result may still be playing on the minds of the players and coaching staff.
So with that said, here’s a look at everything you need to know about Aston Villa v Arsenal.
Aston Villa vs Arsenal Premier League clash date and kick-off time
Arsenal travel to Villa Park for their first away game of the season, and will be aiming for revenge after losing 1-0 there in November last year.
Arteta has beaten Emery once in two attempts at Villa Park, with a dramatic 4-2 win in February 2023 followed by last year’s 1-0 defeat.
- Date: August 24th, 2024
- Kick-off time: 17:30 (BST)
- Stadium: Villa Park
How to watch Aston Villa v Arsenal live on TV
The game will be televised on Sky Sports, with kick-off at 5.30pm UK time, with coverage and build-up beginning at 5pm, and reaction continuing after full-time.
The match will also be broadcast on BBC Radio 5 Live for those who cannot watch.
Arsenal team news and injuries
Arsenal are expected to confirm the signing of Mikel Merino today, but the deal has not been completed in time for the Spaniard to be included in the matchday squad.
Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney are still absent, whilst Fabio Vieira will also not be in the squad as he aims to complete a loan move to FC Porto.
Everyone who featured against Wolves is expected to be available, and Jurrien Timber will be pushing for a start after an impressive cameo appearance.
Tickets for Aston Villa v Arsenal
Arsenal’s away allocation for the game is sold out, with no more away tickets available for fans hoping to travel to support the team.
Prediction
Villa will be a tough test for Arsenal, but a win would be a huge boost for their title credentials, and revenge from last season is certainly on the cards.
Arsenal fan Ollie Watkins was named in the PFA Team of the Year alongside five Arsenal players, and after scoring at the Emirates last season, Arteta will be well aware of the threat he poses.
It is unlikely to be an easy game, but Arsenal have a lot of quality, and Kai Havertz will be looking to get onto the scoresheet again after scoring against Wolves.
It is likely to be a low-scoring affair given the quality of both defences, and two teams who are competing in the Champions League this season will go head-to-head for an important early win.
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