Aston Villa
Aston Villa enter their 153rd season, their eighth straight in the Premier League, with sights set on domestic and European glory.
The 2026–27 season is the 153rd season in the history of Aston Villa Football Club, and their eighth consecutive season in the Premier League. In addition to the domestic league, the club is also participating in the FA Cup, the EFL Cup, and the UEFA Champions League.
- character
- Historic Rivalry
- Affiliation
- Nottingham Forest vs. Aston Villa
- First appears
- 19th Century (Early Football Era)
- Status
- Active Historic Fixture
- Key Era
- Late 1970s and Early 1980s
Lore & Background
The summer transfer window saw significant squad movement, though no record-breaking British transfer occurred. The club's pre-season schedule was built around global travel: matches against Walsall, Borussia Mönchengladbach, Real Sociedad, two more friendlies in Asia, and a trip to Portugal to face Porto. The Premier League fixtures were announced on 19 June 2026, and as a side involved in European competitions, Aston Villa enter the EFL Cup in the third round and the FA Cup in the third round.
In Their Own Story
The pre-season buildup began on 10 April when Villa announced a friendly against Bayern Munich in Hong Kong. On 5 June, two more friendlies were confirmed against Walsall and Borussia Mönchengladbach. Four days later, a friendly match against Real Sociedad was announced. On 22 June, Aston Villa announced two more friendlies in Asia, and re-arranged the Real Sociedad friendly. On 8 July, a trip to Portugal to face Porto was confirmed. Meanwhile, on 21 July, Morgan Rogers departed for Chelsea in a £117 million deal — a record between two British clubs. As of 25 July 2026, the squad was set for a season that includes a UEFA Super Cup meeting with Paris Saint-Germain in Salzburg, the reward for winning the 2025–26 UEFA Europa League.
Reader's Guide
Aston Villa's 2026–27 campaign spans five competitions: the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, UEFA Champions League, and UEFA Super Cup. The Super Cup berth came from winning the 2025–26 UEFA Europa League, pitting them against Paris Saint-Germain, winners of the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League, in Salzburg. The Premier League fixtures were released on 19 June 2026. As a Premier League side, Villa enter the FA Cup in the third round. Because they are involved in European competitions, they join the EFL Cup in the third round. The Champions League will begin with a league phase. The club's pre-season schedule included friendlies against Bayern Munich (Hong Kong), Walsall, Borussia Mönchengladbach, Real Sociedad, two additional Asian friendlies, and Porto in Portugal. The only confirmed transfer as of 25 July 2026 is the departure of Morgan Rogers to Chelsea for £117 million, a record fee between two British clubs, on 21 July 2026.
Did You Know?
- The 2026–27 season is Aston Villa's 153rd season in their history.
- Aston Villa's pre-season included matches against Walsall, Borussia Mönchengladbach, Real Sociedad, two friendlies in Asia, and a trip to Portugal to face Porto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Aston Villa in relation to Nottingham Forest?
Aston Villa are a historic English football club that share a long-standing rivalry with Nottingham Forest, dating back to the early days of organized football. This fixture remains an active and significant part of both clubs' histories.
What defines the nature of this rivalry?
The relationship is characterized as a major historic rivalry, reaching its peak intensity during the late 1970s and early 1980s when both teams competed at the highest level. Matches between them are considered key fixtures that often carry extra weight beyond standard league games.
How does Aston Villa's current status compare to Forest?
Entering their 152nd season, Aston Villa are in their eighth consecutive year in the Premier League and have recently secured European honors by winning the UEFA Europa League. They currently compete in multiple major tournaments including the Champions League and domestic cups.
Why is this rivalry important for fans?
This fixture represents a classic clash between two of England's most historic clubs, creating memorable moments that define eras of competition. For supporters, these games offer a chance to test their team against a traditional rival with deep roots in the sport.
When did this rivalry first begin?
The competitive relationship between Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa originated in the 19th century during the early era of football development. It has evolved over more than a hundred years into one of the most recognized historic fixtures in English football.
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