Aston Villa vs Fulham Predicted XI: Emery Faces Barkley Decision as Alysson Eyes Start

Aston Villa return to Premier League action against Fulham on Saturday evening, with Unai Emery facing several selection decisions as his side look to respond to their midweek Carabao Cup elimination.

Villa had built considerable momentum with four consecutive victories across all competitions before Bournemouth ended that sequence on Wednesday. Now, with Barcelona awaiting in the Champions League on Tuesday, Emery must consider how best to balance immediate results with the demands of a congested fixture schedule.

According to John Townley of Birmingham Live, Aston Villa’s Predicted XI could feature another opportunity for Alysson, while Ross Barkley’s involvement remains an intriguing midfield question.

Aston Villa Looking to Restore Momentum Against Fulham

Saturday’s meeting represents an important opportunity for Villa to consolidate their Premier League position.

Fulham arrive having experienced their own disappointment in the Carabao Cup, suffering a 1-0 home defeat against Crystal Palace. However, successive 1-0 league victories over Coventry City and Hull City suggest a side becoming increasingly comfortable in tight encounters.

With eight points collected from eight league fixtures, Fulham’s overall return remains modest, although their recent defensive resilience deserves recognition.

For Emery, maintaining consistency will be particularly important given Villa’s demanding schedule. Barcelona and Manchester United await before the November international break, placing considerable emphasis on squad management.

Villa collected 15 points from their opening nine league matches last season, having secured 18 at the equivalent stage of the 2024/25 campaign.

Barkley or Gomes? Emery’s Midfield Selection Dilemma

Perhaps the most interesting decision concerns Aston Villa’s central midfield.

Boubacar Kamara appears likely to retain his position, providing defensive discipline and positional security. His midfield partner, however, presents Emery with different tactical possibilities.

Joao Gomes offers energy, ball-winning ability and intensity when pressing opponents. Those qualities could prove valuable against a Fulham side increasingly confident in protecting narrow advantages.

Ross Barkley provides another dimension through his composure and ability to dictate possession.

Selecting Barkley could allow Villa to establish greater territorial control, particularly if Fulham defend compactly and restrict opportunities between the lines.

Emery’s decision will reveal something about his intended approach, especially whether he prioritises midfield aggression or sustained possession.

Alysson Could Return to Aston Villa Starting XI

Alysson is another player pushing for inclusion after starting three consecutive matches before Villa’s trip to Bournemouth.

The winger’s potential return would give Emery an attacking outlet on the right, with Johan Manzambi expected to operate centrally behind Nicolas Jackson.

John McGinn could occupy the left attacking position, providing experience, defensive responsibility and movement into central areas.

Jackson is expected to lead the line, although his effectiveness will depend heavily on the quality of service from Villa’s attacking midfielders.

Defensively, Zion Suzuki should start behind Matty Cash, Victor Lindelöf, Pau Torres and Ian Maatsen.

With Champions League football approaching, Emery may also consider the physical demands placed upon his regular starters.

Aston Villa Predicted XI vs Fulham

Predicted XI: Suzuki; Cash, Lindelöf, Torres, Maatsen; Kamara, Gomes; Alysson, Manzambi, McGinn; Jackson.

Ultimately, Villa’s attacking quality should provide opportunities against Fulham, although Emery’s midfield selection could determine how effectively his side control proceedings.

With Barcelona approaching, securing three Premier League points would represent an ideal foundation for another demanding week.