Just in 🚨: Unai Emery has confirmed that Villa’s new signing is not available for tomorrow’s game, but he is expected to be available for the match against Nottingham Forest.

Aston Villa have been handed a potential boost ahead of their upcoming Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest, with Unai Emery hopeful that Johan Manzambi will be available for selection despite missing the squad’s trip to Brugge.

Manzambi has not travelled with the Villa squad for their European fixture, raising questions over his fitness and availability for the next match.

However, Emery remains optimistic that the midfielder will recover in time to play a part against Forest.

The absence of Manzambi will naturally attract attention, particularly given his importance to Emery’s plans.

Villa have been carefully managing their squad during a demanding period of fixtures, with European football adding to the workload.

For now, there is no indication that Manzambi’s absence from the Brugge trip is a major setback. Emery’s comments suggest the club are taking a cautious approach, with the priority being to ensure the player is ready to return when he is fully fit.

Villa supporters will therefore be watching closely for further updates from Bodymoor Heath as preparations begin for the Forest game.

Manzambi’s potential return would provide Emery with another option in midfield and could strengthen Villa’s squad ahead of another important Premier League test.

With the season already gathering pace, managing player fitness will be crucial. Emery will be hoping Manzambi’s situation proves to be nothing more than a short-term issue and that the midfielder can rejoin his team-mates for the meeting with Nottingham Forest.