Unai Emery offers Aston Villa team news hint ahead of Chelsea test

Unai Emery has suggested that Chelsea may come up against a familiar figure when Aston Villa host the Blues this weekend, as the Spaniard prepares his side for another major Premier League challenge.

Chelsea arrive off the back of a morale-boosting result, having fought back to secure a draw against Newcastle United at St James’ Park following an intense second half.

That result means Enzo Maresca’s side have taken four points from their last two league outings, offering signs of progress as they look to build momentum. However, the task ahead is significant. Aston Villa are in outstanding form, riding a 10-game winning streak in all competitions and firmly establishing themselves as one of the league’s standout teams this season.

Villa currently sit third in the table, seven points clear of Chelsea and just three points behind leaders Arsenal, placing them firmly in the title conversation. Emery has credited his squad depth and internal competition for their success, but he has also acknowledged that not every player has found consistent minutes.

One such player is Jadon Sancho, a former Chelsea loanee who joined Villa on a temporary deal during the summer transfer window. Sancho’s move followed Chelsea’s decision to activate an exit clause that released them from a previous obligation to buy. While his impact has been limited so far, Emery has hinted that the winger faces an important test as he pushes to play a more influential role.

With confidence high and competition fierce, Villa will be eager to maintain their momentum against a Chelsea side determined to prove they can compete with the league’s elite.