Aston Villa manager Unai Emery remains uncertain about goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's availability for Saturday's Premier League match against leaders Arsenal due to a back injury. Arsenal could persist with Mikel Merino in attack despite returning forwards, while facing their own injury concerns ahead of the lunchtime kick-off at Villa Park.
The upcoming Premier League encounter between third-placed Aston Villa and table-topping Arsenal promises to be a pivotal clash, with Villa aiming to close the gap to three points. The match, set for Saturday lunchtime at Villa Park, sees Emery return to face his former club, where he guided Arsenal to the 2014 FA Cup triumph before taking the helm at Villa.
Emery's side enters on a high after a dramatic 4-3 victory at Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday, where Dutch goalkeeper Marco Bizot stepped in for the injured Emiliano Martinez. The Argentina World Cup winner failed to complete the warm-up due to a back issue and sat out the thriller, in which Villa came from behind to secure the win. Speaking at a media conference, Emery said: “We train this afternoon and he didn’t train yesterday. It’s very important for him how these passing hours if he is feeling better. Until the last moment I don’t know if he is going to be available or not for tomorrow.”
Emery praised his team's progress, noting: “We are very happy how we are progressing, how we are competing, how we are on points. We now really have a huge opportunity for tomorrow.” He acknowledged Arsenal's dominance, adding: “Arsenal are the best team until now and of course the favourites to win this trophy in the Premier League because they are competing fantastically and playing fantastic. Tomorrow is really a huge test – collectively and individually.”
For Arsenal, manager Mikel Arteta is considering keeping midfielder Mikel Merino up front after the Spain international's strong performances, including a goal in Wednesday's win over Brentford. No Arsenal player has scored more in 2025 than Merino. Arteta commented: “I think he has earned at least to be in the thinking behind it for the way he’s performing and the impact that he’s bringing to the team, so that’s a yes.”
Injury worries persist for the Gunners, with Declan Rice nursing a calf knock from the Brentford game but hopeful to feature. Defender Cristhian Mosquera is doubtful with an ankle issue, and Gabriel remains sidelined by a thigh injury. Arteta recognized Villa's form, stating: “Well, for what they’ve been doing, the way they’ve been playing and winning matches, certainly it’s a team that is in great form and we know that. We know obviously the manager and the incredible job that he’s done there as well. So we know the test tomorrow – but we always think it’s an opportunity.” A win would bolster Arsenal's lead over chasers like Manchester City and Chelsea.