After their Europa League exploits, Villa’s attention turns back to the Premier League as they welcome Brentford to Villa ParkThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Unai Emery’s Aston Villa finished in the top eight of the Europa League(Image: Getty Images)
Aston Villa aim to keep their unexpected title challenge alive as they host Brentford at Villa Park for a Premier League encounter on Sunday afternoon. The Villans are riding high after an impressive victory at St James’ Park last weekend, while Brentford suffered a rare home setback against Nottingham Forest in West London.
Following an uncharacteristic home defeat to Jack Grealish’s Everton on January 18, Aston Villa have quickly regained momentum, stringing together three consecutive wins in all competitions. Despite a sluggish opening hour against RB Salzburg in Thursday’s Europa League clash, Villa mounted a spirited comeback to secure a top-two finish in the League Phase standings.
Last weekend’s triumph over Newcastle, combined with Arsenal’s loss to Manchester United, has brought Unai Emery’s side within just four points of the league-leading Gunners. Villa have been formidable at home, collecting 25 points from 11 Premier League matches at Villa Park—bettered only by Manchester City and Arsenal, who have each amassed 29. However, their last league outing on home soil ended in a surprise defeat to Everton.
As Villa chase their first-ever Premier League title, the January transfer window has added a touch of nostalgia, with Douglas Luiz and Tammy Abraham both making returns to the Birmingham club.
Brentford, meanwhile, head to Villa Park determined to avoid a third straight defeat in all competitions—a run they haven’t experienced since December 2024. Keith Andrews’s side have recently lost back-to-back league games to Chelsea and Nottingham Forest, with last weekend’s defeat marking only the second time the Bees have been beaten at the Gtech Community Stadium this season.
Despite their recent dip in form, Brentford remain in a strong position, especially considering pre-season expectations of a relegation battle. They currently sit eighth in the table, just four points off fifth-placed Chelsea. While only four Premier League teams have a poorer away record this season, Brentford have shown improvement on the road, winning three of their last four away matches across league and FA Cup competitions.
Up front, Igor Thiago has been a revelation, already breaking the record for most goals scored by a Brazilian in a single Premier League campaign. With 16 goals in 23 appearances, he has helped Brentford cope with the summer departures of Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo, providing a potent attacking threat as they look to get back on track.
Aston Villa vs Brentford Betting TipsBoth teams to score – 4/6 (Betfred)Ollie Watkins to score anytime – 11/8 (Betfred)
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