Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa prediction 07.01.2026 | Premier League

That solid run between late October and early December now feels distant. Back then, the Eagles lost just twice in ten matches and picked seven wins. Fast forward a few weeks and the picture has shifted.

A defeat at St James’ Park last weekend marked Palace’s second loss in three games and extended their winless run in all competitions to seven. Oliver Glasner will be pushing for a response, though home form clouds the outlook.

Palace have lost three of their last four Premier League games at Selhurst Park, which is not what you want when a top-three side comes to town. Going forward, Jean-Philippe Mateta remains the focal point.

Eight league goals underline his value, and he should partner Brennan Johnson again. Injuries, however, reduce flexibility. Cheick Doucouré and Daniel Muñoz are both out with knee problems, while Caleb Kporha is sidelined with a back issue.

Villa’s run finally hit a wall last week. After 11 straight wins in all competitions, the Villans were brought back down to earth with a rough 4–1 loss at the Emirates. It was one of those afternoons where everything goes wrong at once. Even strong sides have those days, and Arsenal are very good at exposing them.

What mattered was the reaction. Unai Emery usually gets one, and this time was no different. A 3–1 win over Nottingham Forest at Villa Park steadied the mood and pushed that home record to 11 consecutive victories.

Ollie Watkins was on the scoresheet again. No surprise there. Seven league goals now, and he looks locked in to start. Donyell Malen, however, may have to wait.

There are a couple of issues to flag. Ross Barkley is still nursing a knee injury and won’t be involved. Amadou Onana is also missing after pulling up with a hamstring problem against Arsenal.