Sat Jan 18 16:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Arsenal Make Two Changes for Aston Villa Clash
**London, England** – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has made two changes to his starting XI for Saturday’s Premier League match against Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium. Gabriel Martinelli and Mikel Merino return to the starting lineup, replacing Raheem Sterling and William Saliba respectively. Sterling will be on the bench, while Saliba is omitted entirely after playing every minute of the club’s last seven games.
The changes necessitate a defensive reshuffle, with Thomas Partey expected to fill in at right-back, and Jurrien Timber partnering Gabriel in central defense. Myles Lewis-Skelly retains his left-back position following a strong midweek performance. In midfield, Merino joins Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard, while up front, Martinelli will partner Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz.
Aston Villa have made one change to their team, with Ian Maatsen replacing Lucas Digne at left-back. Former Arsenal youth player Donyell Malen, recently signed from Borussia Dortmund, is among the Villa substitutes.
First Piper 