Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery confirmed that midfielder John McGinn sustained a knee injury during their recent Premier League defeat to Everton. McGinn was forced off the pitch just 18 minutes into the match, being replaced by Evann Guessand, who had recently returned from AFCON duty.
Villa’s captain appeared to put pressure on his knee and soon called for medical assistance, signaling potential trouble. Speaking after the game, Emery said, “Of course, when players get injured, it’s never good. It’s football, and we have to accept it. This is also an opportunity for other players to step up.”
When pressed for details about McGinn’s injury, Emery stated, “I don’t know the full extent yet, but it’s his knee.”
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The news is a considerable setback for Aston Villa, as they are already grappling with midfield absences. Boubacar Kamara is currently sidelined with a knee problem, while Amadou Onana and Ross Barkley remain unavailable. Onana might return to training next week, but Barkley’s recovery is expected to stretch into February.
Regarding Kamara’s injury status, Emery added, “We should have more clarity about Kamara this week. For now, he is out.”
Villa face a demanding schedule ahead. After their Europa League fixture against Fenerbahce on Thursday, they will host RB Salzburg in their final group stage match the following week. In the Premier League, Villa travel to Newcastle United next weekend and then welcome Brentford on Sunday, February 1.