Tottenham take on Aston Villa in a crucial Premier League clash.
The battle for Premier League survival continues, as Tottenham Hotspur travel to Villa Park to face Aston Villa on Sunday evening.
Spurs won their first league game of 2026 by prevailing 1-0 at Wolves last weekend courtesy of an 82nd-minute strike from Joao Palhinha. Antonin Kinsky made a fantastic stoppage-time save to deny Joao Gomes’ free-kick, sparking jubilant scenes at the away end of the Molineux. It also marked the first victory of the Roberto De Zerbi era, lifting the spirits and confidence of the players.
Unfortunately, Tottenham lost Dominic Solanke and Xavi Simons to injuries against Wolves. Dominic Solanke went down off the ball and received treatment on the pitch before being replaced by Richarlison in the 40th minute. Reports this week then suggested that the centre-forward had suffered a grade-2 hamstring injury and would miss the remainder of the season.
Xavi Simons, meanwhile, confirmed that he’s ruptured his ACL and will not only miss Tottenham’s remaining games but also the World Cup this summer, with a return pencilled in for 2027.
Roberto De Zerbi gives Tottenham team news ahead of Aston Villa encounter
Addressing the media during the press conference, De Zerbi was asked for an update on Solanke and whether he is out for the rest of the season. To which, he responded (h/t Football London):
“I don’t know yet. Villa no.”
The Tottenham boss also revealed that Guglielmo Vicario is still not fit enough to return to the squad, but Destiny Udogie could be back after missing the Wolves trip with a minor knock.
“He is not available,” De Zerbi said about Vicario.
“Udogie can be available. I don’t know the beginning of the game or the second half.”
Tottenham’s injury woes have only increased since De Zerbi took charge of the club in March. The 46-year-old has lost Cristian Romero, Mohammed Kudus and Simons for the rest of the season, while Solanke doesn’t look playing again after suffering a muscle problem. He will have to make do with the resources available at his disposal and find a way to beat Aston Villa on Sunday.
Spurs have lost two games (Premier League and FA Cup) against Aston Villa this season. They will be desperate to perform well and register a win in the Midlands for the second weekend running. It will be interesting to see how De Zerbi approaches the game and sets his team up against Unai Emery’s men.