The first Saturday lunchtime kick-off of the 2025–26 Premier League season brings a compelling clash at Villa Park, where Aston Villa host Newcastle United. Both sides enter the new campaign with unfinished business after narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification last season.
Season Context
On the final day of the 2024–25 campaign, Villa had the opportunity to seal a Champions League berth if they could defeat Manchester United. Instead, they fell 2–0 at Old Trafford in a game overshadowed by the controversial disallowing of Morgan Rogers’ early strike. Newcastle, meanwhile, were beaten at home by Everton, but Villa’s slip allowed the Magpies to cling to fifth place.
This summer has done little to lift the mood at St. James’ Park. Eddie Howe has endured a frustrating transfer window, with star striker Alexander Isak pushing for a move and refusing to feature. The Swede’s situation leaves Newcastle short of firepower heading into the new season.
Villa, by contrast, have also been limited in the market due to profit and sustainability rules (PSR). After a busy January, Unai Emery has had to settle for a quieter summer, though their core squad remains intact. New arrival Evann Guessand from Nice should add depth in attack.
Head-to-Head (Last Five Meetings)
- Aston Villa: 1 win
- Newcastle: 3 wins
- Draws: 1
- Last meeting: Aston Villa 4–1 Newcastle United (April 19, 2025)
Villa dismantled Newcastle in Birmingham earlier this year, and while the Magpies have historically held the upper hand, Emery’s men will be confident at home.
Current Form (Preseason)
Aston Villa
- Villarreal 0–2 Aston Villa
- Marseille 3–1 Aston Villa
- Aston Villa 4–0 Roma
- Nashville 2–2 Aston Villa
- St. Louis 1–2 Aston Villa
Newcastle United
- Newcastle 0–2 Atlético Madrid
- Newcastle 2–2 Espanyol
- Tottenham 1–1 Newcastle
- K-League XI 1–0 Newcastle
- Arsenal 3–2 Newcastle
Villa’s summer form has been more encouraging, with convincing wins against Roma and Villarreal. Newcastle’s preparations, in contrast, have been shaky.
Team News
Aston Villa
The big absence is Emiliano Martínez, suspended after his red card at Old Trafford on the final day of last season. Summer signing Marco Bizot will make his Premier League debut between the posts. Otherwise, Emery has a strong squad available, though January loanees Marcus Rashford, Axel Disasi and Marco Asensio have returned to their parent clubs.
Predicted Villa XI (4-2-3-1):
Bizot; Cash, Carlos, Torres, Digne; Kamara, Luiz; Bailey, McGinn, Diaby; Watkins
Newcastle United
The Magpies are without talisman Alexander Isak, who is determined to force through a move to Liverpool. Joe Willock remains sidelined, while Sean Longstaff’s departure has prompted the imminent signing of Jacob Ramsey from Villa—though he will not debut against his former club. Howe is expected to deploy Anthony Gordon as a false nine, flanked by Harvey Barnes and new signing Anthony Elanga.
Predicted Newcastle XI (4-3-3):
Pope; Trippier, Schär, Botman, Burn; Guimarães, Tonali, Miley; Barnes, Gordon, Elanga
Key Battles
- Ollie Watkins vs Newcastle’s back line: Watkins remains Villa’s cutting edge and will look to exploit spaces behind Sven Botman and Fabian Schär.
- Bruno Guimarães vs Douglas Luiz: The midfield duel could dictate tempo, with both players key to transition play.
- Anthony Gordon as a false nine: Without Isak, Gordon’s ability to adapt centrally will determine Newcastle’s attacking threat.
Prediction
Villa’s aggressive defensive line and Martínez’s absence may give Newcastle chances, but Emery’s side look sharper and more settled. Newcastle’s disjointed preseason and lack of a recognized striker leaves them vulnerable. Expect a lively encounter, but Villa should edge it at home.
Prediction: Aston Villa 2–1 Newcastle United