2026-2027 Preseason Friendlies: Porto vs. Aston Villa, Probable Lineups

A high-profile friendly in Porto: Porto vs. Aston Villa, a summer exhibition match, is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. at the Estádio do Dragão. A matchup with a Champions League feel: the reigning Portuguese champions, led by Francesco Farioli, will face off against Aston Villa, fresh off their Europa League victory. Both teams are still without the national team players who participated in the World Cup.

Farioli is expected to rely on the attacking trio of Gomes, Veiga, and Sainz, while in midfield, Rosario will lead the charge with Varela and Mora by his side. The fullbacks will be Costa and Moura.

Unai Emery will field his Aston Villa side with Madjo as the focal point of the attack, while Bailey, Buendia, and Hemmings will feature in midfield. In the center of the park, Markley will partner with Gomes. The Villans have just signed Garnacho, though he is not expected to play in this match.

Porto vs. Aston Villa: Probable Lineups
PORTO (4-3-3): Alfonso; Costa, Bednarek, Perez, Moura; Varela, Rosario, Mora; Gomes, Veiga, Sainz. Head Coach: Farioli.
ASTON VILLA (4-2-3-1): Gauci; Contanti, Keba Cisse, Carroll, Maatsen; Barkley, Gomes; Bailey, Buendia, Hemmings; Madjo. Head Coach: Emery.