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Aston Villa begin their Europa League campaign on Thursday night in desperate need of a positive result to ignite their season.A dismal start to their Premier League campaign has left the club in cris...

Aston Villa vs Bologna – Predicted lineup and team news

Aston Villa begin their Europa League campaign on Thursday night in desperate need of a positive result to ignite their season.

A dismal start to their Premier League campaign has left the club in crisis, with just one goal scored and no wins to their name. This return to European football at Villa Park provides a welcome opportunity to restore confidence.

If there is one manager you would want for a Europa League campaign, it is Unai Emery. The Spaniard is the most decorated and successful coach in the competition’s history, having won the title a record four times. He has reached the final in his last five full campaigns, and his incredible record provides a huge source of optimism for the club.

Aston Villa vs Bologna – Predicted lineup and team news

Aston Villa team news

Unai Emery is expected to make several changes for the European opener, though his midfield options are limited by injuries to Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans. The return of Boubacar Kamara from injury is a significant boost, and he will likely anchor the midfield alongside captain John McGinn.

🗣️ The Boss on what we need: "We have to be more demanding how we have to feel and make our structure stronger tactically and individually." pic.twitter.com/bU9Rql2Ete
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) September 24, 2025

The manager has more options in attack. Loan signings Harvey Elliott and Jadon Sancho are both strong contenders to start. Donyell Malen offers an alternative to Ollie Watkins in attack.