Credit: Imago

Max Wilkins

Sun 24 May 2026 14:45, UK

Aston Villa have named their starting XI to face Manchester City on the final day of the season.

The Villans travel to the Etihad Stadium just four days after their Europa League final triumph away in Istanbul.

It’s only three days since the trophy parade in Birmingham, so it’s fair to say there’s probably still a hint of sore heads at Bodymoor Heath.

There is still a game to play as Pep Guardiola takes charge of his final clash in charge of the Citizens.

A party atmosphere awaits Villa and Man City on Sunday, with Unai Emery’s team selection coming as a surprise to many.

Aston Villa name starting XI vs Manchester City

The curtain looks set to fall on a campaign that no one associated with the claret and blue outfit will forget anytime soon.

After 37 games, Champions League qualification is secure, and there is no worry of moving out of the top five regardless of the result on the final day.

That, combined with just days to recover after Europa League celebrations, isn’t much of a surprise that a much-changed team has been named, although there are some shock elements.

Marco Bizot has come in between the sticks to replace Emi Martinez while Tyrone Mings, Victor Lindelof, Ian Maatsen and Andres Garcia occupy the back four.

Lamare Bogarde and Douglas Luiz start together just behind Ross Barkley, who is joined by Leon Bailey and Emi Buendia on the flanks.

It comes as a surprise to see Ollie Watkins starting up top, although there is no sign of Tammy Abraham on the bench, so that will be why.

Emery has caught everyone by surprise as it is arguably a stronger side than many would have expected at the Etihad.

Villa are now set to face Man City, but there is little to no expectations from the B6 faithful to see any sort of positive result at the Etihad.

Aston Villa fans don’t expect fireworks after Europa League glory

The irony of all of this is that the team selection really doesn’t matter, as there is nothing to play for at the Etihad.

Villa have already qualified for the Champions League through their Premier League placement before then winning the Europa League.

There was so much effort put in against Freiburg that it was always going to make for a difficult afternoon against City.

The Villans completed 306 passes on the day, took 17 shots and took 31 touches inside the opposition penalty area.

That was only made better by 40 duel wins and 29 defensive actions collectively, which ensured a clean sheet.

Throw all of that effort in with days worth of partying, and it makes for a pretty meaningless team selection away to Man City.