Newly-promoted Sunderland aim to continue their impressive start to the season on Sunday when they host an Aston Villa side yet to score a league goal. The Black Cats have turned the Stadium of Light ...
Newly-promoted Sunderland aim to continue their impressive start to the season on Sunday when they host an Aston Villa side yet to score a league goal.
The Black Cats have turned the Stadium of Light into a fortress, winning both of their home games so far. However, that record will be tested by Villa manager Unai Emery, who holds an exceptional personal unbeaten record against promoted teams.
Sunderland vs Aston Villa – Match Preview and Team News
- Date: Sunday, 21 September 2025
- Kick-off: 2:00 pm BST
- Venue: Stadium of Light, Sunderland
- Last Meeting: Sunderland 0-3 Aston Villa, March 6, 2018, Championship
Team News
Sunderland
Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has few injury concerns ahead of Sunday’s game. He is set to be boosted by the return of key defender Daniel Ballard to the starting lineup, further strengthening a side that has impressed at home this season.
Aston Villa
Unai Emery’s selection is hampered by a midfield injury crisis, with Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans both unavailable. However, the manager receives a timely boost with the potential return of Boubacar Kamara. Harvey Elliott could also be handed his first start of the Premier League season.
Form
Sunderland
The Black Cats have enjoyed a fantastic return to the Premier League, collecting seven points from four matches. Their success has been built on a perfect home record, having won both of their games at the Stadium of Light this season. A victory on Sunday would see them win their opening three home top-flight games for the first time since 1965.
Aston Villa
Unai Emery’s side are in the midst of a historic goal drought, having failed to score in their opening four league games for the first time ever. Their confidence was further dented by a midweek Carabao Cup exit. However, they are led by a manager with a formidable record. This will be Unai Emery’s first meeting with Sunderland, and he has beaten 25 of the 27 different clubs he has previously faced in the competition.
Predicted Lineups
Sunderland predicted XI: Roefs; Hume, Ballard, Alderete, Mandava; Diarra, Xhaka, Sadiki; Talbi, Isidor, Adingra
Aston Villa predicted XI: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Mings, Digne; Bogarde, Kamara; Guessand, Elliott, Rogers; Watkins
How to watch Sunderland vs Aston Villa?
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League in the UK. Coverage begins at 1:30 pm BST.
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Category: General Sports
