Ian Maatsen expected to miss eight weeks with ankle injury

Aston Villa left-back Ian Maatsen is expected to be sidelined for six to eight weeks due to a right ankle injury. The injury occurred during the 81st minute of Villa’s 2-1 home defeat against Nottingham Forest following a tackle by James McAtee.

While MRI scans confirmed there is no fracture, the results indicated tendon damage. Manager Unai Emery expressed frustration regarding the officiating, stating that the tackle from behind should have resulted in a red card for McAtee. The incident left Villa with only ten players on the pitch, as Emery had already utilized all five substitutions by the 63rd minute.

In addition to Maatsen’s injury, defender Pau Torres is expected to miss two to four weeks due to a hamstring issue sustained during the same match. The upcoming international break may provide recovery time for both players.