Aston Villa vs Newcastle: Football Previews & Free Football Betting Tips
Aston Villa and Newcastle kick off the Premier League weekend on Saturday 16 August 2025 in what promises to be a feisty early–season test. Villa’s home crowd will bring energy after a strong finish last year, while Newcastle’s away fans travel expecting a gritty performance.
Tactical snapshot: Villa under Unai Emery often play a 4-3-3 featuring compact possession and set-play finesse. Newcastle under Eddie Howe evolve between 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3, relying on quick wide transitions and an aggressive press.
Aston Villa
- Injuries: None reported.
- Returns: None reported.
Newcastle
- Injuries: Anthony Gordon.
- Availability: Alexander Isak is unlikely after being separated from the squad over his attitude following interest from Liverpool.
Isak & Gordon’s absence weakens their front line significantly.
Aston Villa
Villa are averaging about 2.0 goals for and 1.6 against per match. They thrive off set-pieces and flashy wing play but are sometimes slow to start.
Newcastle
Newcastle average roughly 1.8 for and 1.4 against per game. Their pressing intensity and counter-threat keep them tight and effective.
Villa at home
Bright first halves, strong set-piece threat, but can be caught on the break when not tracking runners.
Newcastle away
Compact out of possession and rely on transitions. Strong counter-press but vulnerable to crosses over the top.
Aston Villa
Ollie Watkins – always a danger in the box and over the line, his positional sense and finishing can tip tense matches.
Newcastle
Bruno Guimares – a fantastic all round midfielder who is key to Newcastle’s transition threat.
Aston Villa 2–1 Newcastle – home edge, set-piece quality, and early-season energy should see Villa through a tight contest.
Main pick: Villa to win — they’re tight at home and Newcastle may lack rhythm without key attacking players.
Value bet: Anytime scorer – Ollie Watkins — his positioning makes him likely to pop up even if the game is tight.
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