Unai Emery and Villa have been hamstring by the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR), and have enjoyed a quiet window so far after their hectic winter. Things surely would’ve played out differently had they usurped Newcastle in the table on the final day.

Newcastle dominated the first-half, although neither side broke the deadlock. Anthony Elanga was played through on goal early doors, but his shot was saved. The visitors ended up having eight shots, while Villa did not trouble Nick Pope in the Newcastle goal once.

Aston Villa and Newcastle United have tough acts to follow after champions Liverpool beat perennial Premier League-dark horses Bournemouth on Friday night to get the 2025-2026 season under way with a bang. Now attention turns to Villa Park where two teams get their campaigns up and running after trying summer periods.

Aston Villa host Newcastle United on August 16 in their opening Premier League fixture. Transfer intrigue is dominating the build-up.