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Aston Villa vs Manchester United: Prediction, kick-off time, TV, live stream, team news, h2h results, odds
After failing to win any of their first six matches this season, Villa have now won 15 of their last 17 outings and have clambered up to third-place in the Premier League.
United, meanwhile, head to Birmingham off the back of a thrilling, if galling, 4-4 draw with Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
Things will get no easier for United, though, now Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui have all departed for AFCON.
Here’s everything you need to know about Aston Villa vs Man United…
Date, kick-off time and venue
Aston Villa vs Manchester United is scheduled for a 4.30pm GMT kick-off on Sunday, December 21, 2025.
The match will take place at Villa Park in Birmingham.
Where to watch Aston Villa vs Man United
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League, with coverage starting at 3.30pm ahead of a 4.30 kick-off.
Live stream: Sky Sports subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the Sky Go app and website.
Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport’s live blog!
Free highlights: The Sky Sports app and YouTube channel will show highlights at full-time, with Match of the Day broadcasting on BBC One at 10.30pm.
Aston Villa vs Man United team news
Unai Emery is dealing with a raft of first-team injuries at the moment.
He will be sweating over the fitness of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who has been struggling with a back problem since being injured while warming up to face Brighton. It remains unclear whether he will be fit to start.
Pau Torres is not expected to be involved after being injured against Arsenal, while his fellow centre-back Tyrone Mings is out until the new year.
Comeback trail: Emiliano Martinez
Getty Images
Ross Barkley, sidelined with a sprained knee, completes the Villa injury list.
Winger Jadon Sancho, on loan at Villa from United, is unable to face his parent club.
Meanwhile, United will be without Noussair Mazraoui, Bryan Mbeumo, and Amad Diallo as they represent their nations at AFCON.
Casemiro is suspended after collecting a fifth booking of the season in the Bournemouth draw, potentially opening the door for Kobbie Mainoo to make a rare start.
Casemiro was among the goalscorers against Bournemouth but was suspended after picking up a yellow card
Getty Images
Centre-backs Harry Maguire (thigh) and Matthijs de Ligt (back) are both expected to miss out, too, meaning Amorim may opt for another makeshift defence.
Aston Villa vs Man United prediction
United faced the ultimate frustration after they were forced to split the points with Bournemouth last time out, meaning this trip to face Villa presents an interesting test: Can they leave that match in the past, or will they let it get under their skin?
To sink high-flying Villa would be the ultimate recovery after that vexing draw, but that is much easier said than done.
Villa have got the better of some of the Premier League’s finest in recent weeks, and the mood around the club is higher than ever. There is little to suggest they would slip up here.
Point to prove: Ruben Amorim must get Man United back to winning ways
AFP via Getty Images
Head to head (h2h) history and results
The first edition of this fixture was held back in 1892, with United recording a 2-0 victory. Their most recent meeting produced the same result, thanks to goals from Amad Diallo and Christian Eriksen.
Aston Villa vs Man United match odds
Aston Villa to win: 10/11
Odds via Betfair (subject to change).
