Aston Villa vs Lille prediction 19.03.2026 | Europa League

Aston Villa looked like genuine title contenders not too long ago. The Lions were playing with confidence and control. That feeling has faded a bit. Villa have managed just two wins in the last nine matches, losing five along the way. That kind of run usually raises questions.

The latest setback came at Old Trafford, where Unai Emery’s side lost 3-1 to Manchester United. That result tightened the table, with only two points now separating the Lions from Liverpool in fifth place.

European form, however, offers some relief. The first leg win away from home gives Villa a slight cushion. Still, the Lions are winless in three matches, which makes this second leg a little uncomfortable.

In terms of availability, Boubacar Kamara and Youri Tielemans are both ruled out with knee and ankle issues. Matty Cash also remains unavailable due to a calf problem.

Lille’s season has been uneven, though things seem to be settling. Les Dogues struggled badly earlier, with just one win in ten matches at one stage. That run included seven defeats, which tells its own story. However, the recent shift has been noticeable.

Lille have lost only one of the last six matches, winning four in that stretch. Three clean sheets also suggest improved defensive focus. Away form in Europe has been strong as well. Les Dogues have won four of the last five continental away matches, which gives them some belief heading into this game.

In attack, Matias Fernandez-Pardo has been productive domestically with five goals and four assists, though he is still waiting for his first European goal. He is expected to lead the line again.

Marc-Aurèle Caillard remains out after a long spell with an elbow injury. Ousmane Touré, Hamza Igamane, Osame Sahraoui, and Ethan Mbappé are also unavailable.