Aston Villa and Viking have released their team news ahead of their Champions League encounter. For Aston Villa, manager Unai Emery has confirmed that John McGinn will return to the starting lineup after appearing as a substitute in the club's previous match. The Villa starting XI features Suzuki in goal, with a defensive line of Mbaye, Lindelof, Torres, and Mings. The midfield and attack include McGinn, Barkley, Joao Gomes, Buendia, Alysson, and Jackson. The bench includes options such as Cash, Kamara, Garnacho, and Abraham.

Opponents Viking have traveled to Birmingham and confirmed they will utilize a 4-3-3 formation. Their starting lineup includes Ostbo in goal, supported by defenders Haugen, Daland, Stensness, and Heggheim. The midfield and forward line consist of Askildsen, Bell, Moi, Christiansen, Botheim, and Tripic. Viking’s bench features Belko, Vevatne, Postema, Bjørdal, Bassey, Cosic, and Fuglesta.

While both outlets provided the same roster information, Sky Sports focused on highlighting specific players like Mbaye and Alysson in their headline, whereas The Guardian contextualized the match within the broader scope of the Champions League schedule.