Aston Villa host Brentford in crucial Premier League clash

Villa look to maintain title push with home win against in-form Bees

Feb. 1, 2026 at 12:55am

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Aston Villa return to Villa Park on Sunday, aiming to keep their surprise Premier League title challenge on track as they host Brentford. The Villans are just four points off the summit and have been dominant at home this season, but face a stern test against a Brentford side eager to bounce back from a recent defeat.

Why it matters

This match is crucial for Aston Villa's title aspirations, as they look to maintain their impressive home form and take advantage of any slip-ups from the teams above them. Brentford, meanwhile, will be determined to get their top-four push back on track after a rare home loss.

The details

Villa have rediscovered their momentum after a brief January wobble, with a dramatic Europa League comeback against Red Bull Salzburg in midweek underlining their resilience. Unai Emery's side boasts the third-best home record in the league, but will have to be wary of Brentford's dangerous attacking threat, led by the in-form Igor Thiago.

  • Aston Villa host Brentford on Sunday, February 5, 2026.
  • Villa suffered an injury scare in midweek as Ollie Watkins was forced off with a suspected hamstring issue.

The players

Unai Emery

The Aston Villa manager, who has guided the club to an unlikely title challenge this season.

Igor Thiago

The Brentford striker, who has scored a club-record 16 Premier League goals this campaign.

Tammy Abraham

The Aston Villa striker, who has returned to the club on a £18.25 million transfer and is set for his second debut.

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What they’re saying

“We must be at our best to overcome a very good Brentford side, but we are confident in our ability to get the three points at home.”

— Unai Emery, Aston Villa Manager

“It's been a tough run of results, but we're determined to bounce back and show our quality against a strong Aston Villa team.”

— Keith Andrews, Brentford Assistant Manager

What’s next

Aston Villa will be eager to avenge their 1-0 loss to Brentford earlier this season, and a win on Sunday would keep them firmly in the title race.

The takeaway

This match is a crucial test of Aston Villa's title credentials, as they look to maintain their impressive home form against a dangerous Brentford side. The return of Tammy Abraham could provide a timely boost for the Villans as they aim to keep the pressure on the teams above them.