Chelsea and Aston Villa Injury Updates: Neto and Gusto Under Assessment

This weekend, Chelsea will face Aston Villa in the Premier League on December 1.

Both teams played in European competitions midweek; Chelsea managed a 2-0 victory against Heidenheim in the UEFA Conference League, while Aston Villa drew 0-0 with Juventus in the Champions League.

Despite this, the teams are heading into the match with contrasting fortunes. Chelsea is on a five-game unbeaten streak, whereas Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, has failed to secure a win in their last seven matches—this being Emery’s toughest spell since joining the club.

Predicted Lineups and Team News for Chelsea vs. Aston Villa

Coach Enzo Maresca is likely to rotate his squad for the match against Aston Villa, following his typical strategy of adjusting player selections between European and domestic fixtures.

Late fitness tests will be conducted on a few players, including Malo Gusto and Pedro Neto, who did not travel for the game in Germany. While both are expected to recover in time, Reece James will miss the match due to an ongoing hamstring issue.

Predicted Chelsea lineup (4-2-3-1): Sanchez (GK) — Gusto, Colwill, Disasi, Cucurella — Caicedo, Fernandez — Palmer, Nkunku, Mudryk — Jackson

Injuries: James (hamstring), Neto (doubtful), Gusto (doubtful).
Suspensions: None

Unai Emery is optimistic that Amadou Onana will return to the squad in time for the match, though Jacob Ramsey continues to be sidelined with a thigh injury.

Lucas Digne and Matty Cash are expected to come into the lineup to add freshness to the defense, likely resulting in Lamare Bogarde and Ian Maatsen moving to the bench.

Predicted Aston Villa lineup (4-3-3): Martinez (GK) — Cash, Torres, Carlos, Digne — Barkley, Onana, Tielemans — McGinn, Watkins, Bailey

Injuries: Ramsey (thigh)
Suspensions: None

How to Watch Chelsea vs. Aston Villa: Live Stream and TV Guide

Here are the viewing options for this Premier League encounter in various regions worldwide: