Preview: Aston Villa vs Newcastle United – Statement Win or Stumbling Start?

The new Premier League season is upon us. The first 12:30pm kick-off sees Aston Villa host Newcastle United. The two teams finished on the same number of points in the 2024/25 season; however, Newcastle took the 5th Champions League spot due to their higher goal difference.

Both sides are full of optimism heading into the new season, with European football once again on the horizon for their fans. However, with ongoing transfer speculation surrounding both clubs, a win on opening day could serve as an early statement of intent.

Newcastle United have had a quiet window in terms of players they’ve brought in. Anthony Elanga joined the Toon from Nottingham Forest earlier in the window. They are also linked to AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw, in a bid to bolster their defensive options.

However, one player has taken all the headlines this summer Alexander Isak who has recently expressed his desire to leave the club and join title holders Liverpool.

Alongside this, Isak has stated he has no intention of returning to Newcastle training or integrating with the squad, to force his move away. Newcastle insist he is not for sale, but how long can this go on? With two weeks left before the transfer window shuts and no movement in the market, Newcastle United’s season looks to be in the balance.

It’s no secret that Newcastle United have struggled to get signings over the line this summer. The latest player to snub the Geordies was Benjamin Sesko, who has joined some might say a worse Manchester United.

Eddie Howe’s side were also in for former Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, before he moved back to Manchester City. There were links with a host of other players, including Bryan Mbeumo and João Pedro, who have both moved clubs this summer.

Unai Emery and Aston Villa come off the back of a strong season, which included a Champions League knockout run and a 6th-place finish in the league.

The Midlands side had exciting talent at their disposal, with Marcus Rashford, Marco Asensio, and Jhon Durán all showing what they were capable of for Villa.

However, with all three players now leaving the club, Aston Villa find themselves searching for new squad depth.

Youngster Yasin Özcan joined Villa early in the window, and recent signing Evan Guessand shows some intent.

Yet, some players could still be on their way out of Villa Park.

Star striker Ollie Watkins has been linked with a move away, alongside Leon Bailey, Emi Buendía, Emi Martínez, and Álex Moreno.

While Europa League football does not provide the same level of prestige as the Champions League, Premier League competition remains as fierce as ever. So, it would come as a surprise if Aston Villa were not active again before the transfer deadline.

Six-pointers are usually contested midway through or towards the end of the season. But even in the first Gameweek, these two teams will feel this game holds importance for the season ahead.

A winning start can build momentum and help either side as their European campaigns begin. Playing catch-up is something no team in the Premier League wants to do, with so much competition and other teams ready and waiting to take your place.

Can Unai Emery show his tactical expertise once again to give Aston Villa the edge? Or will Newcastle United overcome their off-field issues and show why they are a growing force in the Premier League?