Thu Apr 09 20:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Aston Villa and Bologna Name Starting XIs for Europa League Quarter-Final First Leg

The Story:

Bologna and Aston Villa have announced their starting lineups for the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final clash. Bologna manager Vincenzo Italiano has made three changes to the team that defeated Cremonese, bringing in Torbjorn Heggem, Tommaso Pobega, and Lewis Ferguson, with Jonathan Rowe also starting. Unai Emery, Aston Villa’s manager, has made two changes from their victory over West Ham United on March 22, 2026, with Youri Tielemans making his first start since January 25, 2026, and Emi Buendia replacing Jadon Sancho.

Key Points:

  • Bologna’s starting XI includes Heggem, Pobega, Ferguson, and Rowe in place of previous starters.
  • Aston Villa’s Tielemans starts for the first time since January 25, 2026.
  • Buendia replaces Sancho in Aston Villa’s lineup.
  • The match is the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final.
  • Aston Villa defeated West Ham United 2-0 in their last outing 18 days ago.

Key Takeaways:

  • Both managers are making tactical adjustments, indicating the importance of this Europa League quarter-final.
  • Emery’s decision to bring in Tielemans suggests a strategic shift in midfield.
  • The match represents a significant test for both teams as they compete for a spot in the Europa League semi-finals.
  • The context shows Aston Villa defeated Bologna 1-3 in the game.

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