Unai Emery might bring Boubacar Kamara back into Aston Villa’s starting lineup for the EFL Cup match against Crystal Palace, a welcome boost for the team.
Villa will host Oliver Glasner’s side at Villa Park on Wednesday, October 30, hoping to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the tournament.
Emery is likely to rotate the squad that drew 1-1 with Bournemouth, aiming to keep players fresh for the season’s demanding schedule. Kamara, who has been sidelined with a long-term injury, could return for his first start since February.
The 24-year-old Frenchman has been a crucial player for Villa since joining in 2022. His return adds depth to a team that has evolved significantly, now competing in both the Premier League and Champions League.
However, reclaiming a regular spot won’t be easy with the impressive form of midfielders Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans in recent games.
Despite only playing an eight-minute cameo against Bournemouth, Kamara showed his skill. He completed five passes with 80 percent accuracy and made one interception and two recoveries, winning one duel with a 100 percent success rate.
Known for his defensive prowess, Kamara averages 1.39 interceptions, 1.39 blocks, 1.88 tackles, and 1.49 aerial duels won per 90 minutes, according to Fbref.
While he may not be an attacking asset, Kamara is vital for Villa’s ball retention, attempting around 61 passes per 90 minutes with an impressive 89.6 percent accuracy.
His ability to maintain control and disrupt opponents’ play can provide Emery with a stable option in midfield. This EFL Cup clash with Crystal Palace may be an ideal opportunity for him to re-establish himself as a key player for Villa going forward.