Arsenal Starting XI vs Aston Villa: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup

Arsenal vs Aston Villa Preview, Fitness Boosts and Selection Calls

Arsenal head into a defining Premier League meeting with Aston Villa buoyed by the return of a key defensive figure and with selection intrigue across the pitch. The Emirates Stadium hosts a contest heavy with momentum, context and consequence, as both sides eye the summit during a frenetic festive schedule.

Gabriel Return Lifts Arsenal Backline

Gabriel could make his first Arsenal start in nearly two months when Aston Villa arrive in north London. The Brazilian defender’s late cameo in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Brighton marked an important step in his recovery, restoring authority and balance to Mikel Arteta’s defensive options. His presence brings composure in possession and aggression in duels, qualities Arsenal have occasionally lacked during his absence.

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There is further encouragement around Jurrien Timber, who missed the Brighton match after failing to recover from an issue sustained against Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup. Arteta confirmed, “We missed him because in the last part of the [Palace] game he felt something and he could not carry on so he’s out,” offering cautious optimism rather than certainty. Riccardo Calafiori remains a concern after withdrawing from the Brighton warm-up, although the problem is not thought to be serious.

Midfield Balance and Tactical Tweaks

Should Timber be cleared to face Aston Villa, Declan Rice would be restored to his familiar midfield role after deputising at full-back. That adjustment would sharpen Arsenal’s control through the centre, particularly against a Villa side riding an extraordinary wave of confidence.

Unai Emery’s team arrive on an 11-game winning run across all competitions and know victory would draw them level on points with Arsenal. Their intensity and vertical threat demand discipline, positioning and bravery in equal measure.

Attacking Options Under Scrutiny

Rotation, if it comes, is more likely in attack. Gabriel Jesus continues to impress in limited minutes and could replace Viktor Gyokeres, who struggled to impose himself against Brighton. Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze are pushing for greater involvement, while Gabriel Martinelli may reclaim the left wing. Kai Havertz, back in full training, is close to returning to the matchday squad.

Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly, Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard, Saka, Jesus, Martinelli.Injured: White, Mosquera, Dowman.Doubts: Timber, Calafiori, Havertz.Kick-off: 8.15pm GMT, Tuesday December 30, 2025.