Aston Villa are set to be without record signing Johan Manzambi for next week's UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain as the Switzerland international continues his recovery from a knee injury.
According to The Athletic, the 20-year-old is not expected to be fit in time for the meeting with the European champions in Salzburg on 12 August, dealing Unai Emery a significant setback ahead of Villa's biggest fixture of the summer.
Manzambi has not featured since suffering the injury shortly before Switzerland's World Cup last-16 victory over Colombia, forcing him to miss the remainder of the tournament.
Villa's record signing still recovering
Manzambi joined Aston Villa earlier this summer in a £60 million move from Freiburg after emerging as one of the breakout stars of the World Cup.
The attacking midfielder impressed on the international stage, scoring three goals and providing two assists before his tournament was cut short by injury.
He is currently continuing his rehabilitation in Spain under the supervision of rehabilitation specialist Jurdan Mendigucha, with Aston Villa yet to announce a definitive return date.
The latest update suggests the midfielder could remain sidelined for several more weeks.
Emery faces early-season setback
Villa had hoped to integrate Manzambi quickly following his club-record arrival, but the injury means supporters will have to wait longer to see the Switzerland international make his debut.
His absence is expected to continue through Friday's final pre-season friendly against Bayern Munich, leaving Emery without one of his marquee summer additions during the closing stages of the club's preparations.
The midfielder's rehabilitation remains the priority as Villa seek to avoid any unnecessary risks before the start of the competitive campaign.
Focus turns to Premier League opener
While missing the UEFA Super Cup would be a disappointment, Villa's medical staff are expected to prioritise ensuring Manzambi is fully fit for the challenges ahead.
The Midlands club begin their 2026/27 Premier League season away to Brighton on 23 August, and there remains hope the playmaker could return during the opening weeks of the new campaign if his recovery continues as planned.
Key points
- Johan Manzambi is expected to miss Aston Villa's UEFA Super Cup clash with PSG.
- The midfielder is still recovering from a knee injury suffered during the World Cup.
- Villa signed the Switzerland international from Freiburg for £60 million this summer.
- Manzambi is currently completing his rehabilitation in Spain.
- Aston Villa begin their Premier League campaign against Brighton on 23 August.
What comes next?
Aston Villa will conclude their pre-season schedule against Bayern Munich before travelling to Salzburg to face PSG in the UEFA Super Cup.
Manzambi is expected to continue his rehabilitation programme in Spain, with the club likely to provide a further update on his fitness closer to the start of the Premier League season.
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