UEFA Super Cup: Aston Villa lose Swiss-Congolese Johan Manzambi for PSG showdown

Aston Villa have been dealt a major setback ahead of the UEFA Super Cup, with club-record signing Johan Manzambi set to miss next week’s final against Paris Saint-Germain as he continues his rehabilitation from a knee injury.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has not featured since suffering the injury while representing Switzerland at this summer’s FIFA World Cup, delaying what had been expected to be a key role in Villa’s preparations for the new campaign.

Although there is no confirmed timeline for his return, Manzambi is making encouraging progress under the supervision of renowned knee specialist Jurdan Mendiguchia in Spain. Sources close to the club remain optimistic that the youngster’s absence will be measured in weeks rather than months, with his commitment and attitude throughout rehabilitation earning praise behind the scenes.

However, the Super Cup clash against Champions League winners PSG in Salzburg on August 12 will come too soon for the highly rated midfielder.

McGinn scare adds to Villa’s growing injury concerns

Manzambi’s absence is the latest injury problem facing Unai Emery, who is also waiting to discover the extent of captain John McGinn’s knee issue.

The Scotland international was forced off during Tuesday’s 3-1 pre-season victory over BG Pathum in Thailand after landing awkwardly on his left knee. Although McGinn managed to get back to his feet, Emery opted against taking any risks and substituted his skipper immediately.

Villa are hopeful the injury is not serious, but the incident has added to a growing list of fitness concerns ahead of the club’s first appearance in the UEFA Super Cup.

Defender Tyrone Mings was rested as the coaching staff carefully managed his workload, while Ross Barkley also missed the friendly. The squad has already been stretched during pre-season, making McGinn’s setback another unwelcome development.

Race against time for World Cup trio

Villa are also still waiting for several key players to rejoin the squad following their involvement at the World Cup.

Defender Ezri Konsa, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and striker Ollie Watkins have yet to return to full training, leaving their availability for the Super Cup in doubt as they face a race against time to be ready.

There was at least one positive for Emery after midfielder Boubacar Kamara made his first appearance since January, providing a timely boost ahead of the new season.

Villa’s preparations continue with a pre-season meeting against Bayern Munich in Hong Kong on Friday before the squad returns to England for the final phase of training ahead of their showdown with PSG.

With Manzambi already ruled out and doubts lingering over several senior players, Emery will hope his squad can avoid any further setbacks before one of the biggest matches in the club’s recent history.