Worst Start in Premier League History?

Aston Villa's season has started in calamitous fashion as they collapsed against Brighton, with Unai Emery's side going into half-time 4-0 down. The team's summer of change off the pitch has been followed by one of the worst opening 45 minutes of a season in Premier League history.

What Happened?

Brighton's Victor Lindelof bundled into his own net inside eight minutes, before Maxim De Cuyper doubled their advantage. Jack Hinshelwood then scored twice in two minutes, before Joao Gomes, a £38m signing from Wolves, was sent off on his first Premier League appearance for his new club.

Why It Matters for Aston Villa

Aston Villa have lost four players from last season's Europa League-winning team, including Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, Lucas Digne, and Ezri Konsa. The team has also been linked with a move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson. Manager Emery has said that he wants to keep striker Ollie Watkins, but has already confirmed that bids have been made for the 30-year-old.

What Comes Next?

Aston Villa have a home match against Premier League champions Arsenal on Monday. The team is currently 20 points behind leaders Arsenal in the title race, with a goal difference of +7. They have also been linked with a move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson.

League Standing

Aston Villa are currently 4th in the Premier League, with 65 points from 38 games last season. They have scored 56 goals and conceded 49 so far this season.

Recent Form

Aston Villa are on a 4-game winning run, with a recent form record of 4W-1D-0L (WWWWD). They have also been linked with a move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson.

Currently Sidelined

Aston Villa players Amadou Onana and Brian Madjo are currently sidelined due to injury.

Image Prompt

A photorealistic image of an anonymous Aston Villa player, wearing a green and yellow kit, with a 85mm f/1.4 lens, shallow depth of field, and floodlight rim light. The player is shown in a tight action crop, with their face complete and visible, and their background thrown out of focus.