Unai Emery axes Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers in five changes – Aston Villa predicted XI vs Bologna
Aston Villa will begin their Europa League campaign against Bologna on Thursday.
Villa welcome Bologna to Villa Park on 25 September, as they continue their search for their first win of the season.
Unai Emery’s side should have done so last time out, but instead, could only manage a frustrating point as Villa drew 1-1 against Sunderland in the Premier League.
This came despite Sunderland being down to 10 men after Reinildo was sent off, proving just how little confidence there is in the B6 ranks right now.
As a result, the Villans will be keen to get on the winning trail against Bologna, but they could be set to do so without Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins.
Tyrone Mings to be replaced by Pau Torres vs Bologna
It is fair to say that a largely similar team should be used as the claret and blue outfit looks to build some much-needed positivity.
This could see Emi Martinez look to replicate his heroics against Everton, potentially starting behind Ezri Konsa and Matty Cash, who could both feature again.
| Stat vs Everton | Emi Martinez |
| Saves | 2 |
| Goals prevented | 0.29 |
| Accurate passes | 18 |
| Duel win rate (%) | 100 |
Alongside this trio, Torres and Ian Maatsen could be set to come into the side, changes which could see Mings and Lucas Digne drop to the bench.
With that being said, changes at the base of midfield are likely to be kept to a minimum with Boubacar Kamara and John McGinn potentially starting again ahead of the back four.
The Frenchman’s inclusion would certainly benefit Villa, especially after he maintained a 93 per cent pass accuracy while contributing with six defensive actions in a very positive performance against the Black Cats.
- Read more: Emery could soon lose his job at Aston Villa
Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins could face Aston Villa axe
There is no hiding away from the fact that Rogers was terrible against Sunderland, just as he has been all season in claret and blue.
This saw him win just 13 per cent of duels while failing to complete a single dribble or have a shot on target in the north east.
As a result, it could prove to make sense to take him out of the side to replace him with Harvey Elliott alongside Evann Guessand, who could keep his place.
On the left flank, Emi Buendia could drop out in place of Jadon Sancho, with the Manchester United loanee putting in a top showing against Sunderland off the bench.
Ahead of this attacking trio, Emery could put faith in Donyell Malen from the start in place of Watkins, who also struggled to perform at the Stadium of Light.
No matter who starts, that first win of the season is desperately needed here.
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