Emery in action against Arsenal in 2025 Premier League match

Aston Villa confirm public friendly with Elche during break

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Mar 26, 2026, 1:58 pm
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Image: IMAGO / Paul Marriott

Aston Villa friendly against Elche has been confirmed as open to the public, with supporters able to attend Friday’s match at the Pinatar Arena during the international break.

Both clubs are using the fixture to maintain match fitness for players not involved in international duty, while also providing opportunities for fringe and academy players.

The game offers a rare chance for fans to watch Aston Villa in action outside of competitive fixtures as Unai Emery prepares his squad for a crucial run-in.

Aston Villa Elche friendly tickets and access details

Elche manager Eder Sarabia has confirmed that tickets for the match are now available, with entry priced at €15.

Supporters can purchase tickets either online or directly at the Spanish club’s stadium, making the fixture accessible for local fans and travelling supporters.

The decision to open the match to the public adds additional interest to what would typically be a behind-closed-doors training fixture.

Why Aston Villa are using the international break

Aston Villa head into the friendly on the back of a 2-0 Premier League victory over West Ham United, a result that strengthened their position in the top four.

The match provides an opportunity to maintain momentum while ensuring squad players remain sharp ahead of key fixtures in April.

From recent matches we’ve covered, Emery has relied on strong squad rotation, making these types of fixtures important for maintaining rhythm across the group.

Opportunity for young players and squad rotation

The friendly is expected to feature a mix of senior squad members and younger players, with several first-team regulars away on international duty.

Elche are also likely to field an experimental lineup, including academy players, as both sides prioritise development and fitness.

For Aston Villa, the game offers a chance to assess depth options ahead of a demanding schedule.

Key fixtures approaching for Aston Villa

Villa are entering a decisive period of the season, with both European and domestic ambitions still in play.

They are set to face Bologna in the Europa League quarter-finals on 9 April, followed by a Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest on 12 April.

With Champions League qualification also at stake, maintaining squad fitness will be essential.

Key Insights

  • Aston Villa will face Elche in a friendly during the international break
  • The match will be open to the public with €15 tickets available
  • Both teams will use the game to give minutes to fringe and youth players
  • Villa are preparing for a crucial run of fixtures in April
  • The friendly supports squad fitness ahead of European and league matches

What’s next for Aston Villa?

Following the friendly, Aston Villa will turn their attention to the Europa League quarter-final against Bologna on 9 April.

They will then resume Premier League action with a trip to Nottingham Forest, aiming to strengthen their position in the top four.

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