Aston Villa's difficult start to the 2026-27 season has been compounded by fresh injury problems, with Matteo Ruggeri added to the list of absentees ahead of the Champions League clash with Fenerbahce.

Ruggeri was forced off at half-time during Villa's 2-2 draw with Brentford, and manager Unai Emery confirmed the defender is facing a significant spell on the sidelines.

"There are negative ways for some players, because they are injured like Ruggeri," Emery said. "Ruggeri, we don't know exactly how long it's going to be, but it will be some weeks that he's going to be out, more than one month."

Left-back shortage at Villa Park

Ruggeri's absence deepens a problem at left-back, where Ian Maatsen also remains out. Emery conceded his side must find solutions in that area of the pitch.

"We must try to find solutions as Maatsen is not available," he said. "I think he should be in a few days, one week or two weeks joining us."

Goretzka in line for first appearance

There was more encouraging news for Villa, with summer signing Leon Goretzka named in the squad and in contention to make his debut. The midfielder has recovered from a knee injury and could feature against Fenerbahce.

"Leon Goretzka is in the squad," Emery confirmed. "George Hemmings is still being with a small pain — not [available], but maybe on Saturday he can come back."

The availability boost for Goretzka and the possible return of Hemmings later in the week offer Emery some welcome options as he seeks to steer Villa toward their first home win of the campaign.