Aston Villa conducted their final training session at Bodymoor Heath on Monday before traveling to Monaco for tonight’s crucial Champions League encounter. Head coach Unai Emery led the session with a youthful squad, as several senior players remain sidelined due to injuries.
The situation has opened the door for a handful of under-21 players to train with the first team.
Colombian striker Jhon Duran participated as usual, staying focused on his performance amidst interest from West Ham United during the ongoing January transfer window. Having dropped out of the starting lineup since Boxing Day, Duran is determined to regain his place. He joined forces with fellow forward Ollie Watkins as the duo prepared to spearhead Villa’s attack.
The training group included full-backs Lucas Digne, Ian Maatsen, and Matty Cash, defenders Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa, midfielders Youri Tielemans and Boubacar Kamara, and creative players Jacob Ramsey, Morgan Rogers, and Leon Bailey. Despite the strong lineup, Emery is contending with several notable absences.
Captain John McGinn remains out with an injury and faces a race against time to be fit for Villa’s Champions League showdown against Celtic next week. Midfielder Amadou Onana, who was forced off in Saturday’s Premier League clash with Arsenal, was not seen in training. Ross Barkley and Pau Torres were also unavailable, while Donyell Malen missed the session as he is ineligible for the Monaco game.
Additionally, center-back Diego Carlos was absent as he finalizes his transfer to Turkish side Fenerbahce, further thinning Emery’s defensive options.
The lack of senior players created opportunities for Villa’s young talents to shine. Center-back Sil Swinkels, forward Louie Barry, midfielder Lamare Bogarde, and goalkeeper Kosta Nedeljkovic joined the session, with each player aiming to leave a lasting impression on Emery. Barry, who is rumored to be considering a loan move, and Swinkels, a promising young defender, will hope to see their efforts rewarded in future opportunities.
As Villa continue their Champions League journey, Emery is balancing squad depth and development with the immediate challenge of overcoming Monaco. With a mix of experienced campaigners and rising stars, the team is ready to embrace the task ahead in the principality.