Aston Villa are on the brink of securing a historic Champions League spot, and they can seal the deal with a win over Tottenham at Villa Park this Sunday. Under Unai Emery's masterful guidance, the Villans have expertly balanced European commitments with domestic excellence—winning nine of their last 12 league matches immediately after Europa League fixtures. Currently sitting seven points clear of sixth-placed Brentford, a victory here would guarantee their place among Europe's elite next season.

However, Emery faces a midfield crisis ahead of this crucial clash. Belgian powerhouse Amadou Onana has been ruled out after leaving the pitch early against Nottingham Forest. The manager confirmed the news during Friday's press conference, calling it "a difficult situation" for the squad's depth. Long-term absentee Boubacar Kamara also remains sidelined, but there's a silver lining: Ross Barkley and Alysson are both back in contention after being ineligible for Thursday's Europa League match. Their return injects fresh legs and energy into a tired midfield unit that has been navigating a congested fixture list.

Emery is awaiting scan results to fully assess Onana's injury, but for now, he must find tactical solutions. Up front, Ollie Watkins remains the talisman—the striker has scored 10 of his 11 league goals since December, making him the primary threat Tottenham will need to contain.

Predicted Aston Villa XI: Martínez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Tielemans, Bogarde, McGinn; Rogers, Buendía, Watkins.

The action kicks off at 19:00 BST on Sunday, 3 May 2026, at Villa Park. UK viewers can catch the match live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage starting at 18:00 BST, or stream via the HBO Max app and website.