Chelsea Women vs. Aston Villa: WSL preview, predicted XIs, and score prediction

The Villains were quite the busy bunch this summer, with their eyes on taking a step forward. Last year was a significant step in the wrong direction, leading to Carla Ward stepping down as manager. De Pauw comes in after guiding Leverkusen to back-to-back top-six finishes in the Frauen-Bundesliga.

Like Chelsea, Villa saw some top talent depart this summer, but it countered with exciting new signings. Notable arrivals include left-back Paula Tomás from Levante, Olympic silver medalist Gabi Nunes, former Brighton and Hove Albion forward Katie Robinson, and 23-year-old right winger Chasity Grant.

Nunes, an ex-teammate of Mayra Ramirez, and Bayern Munich loanee Jill Baijings are among the players not fit for the match squad.

De Pauw's tenure in England has started on a high note, with Villa enjoying a successful preseason. The team went undefeated through five friendlies, including a match in Spain against Real Betis. Its most impressive result came in its most recent outing, where it edged out City, 2-1. The newly acquired Tomás made an immediate impact, netting the opener within the first 10 minutes.