The 2023/24 season was no less than wonderful for Aston Villa. The Villans secured a top-four spot in the Premier League and qualified for next season’s UEFA Champions League. Additionally, they beat Manchester City and did a double against Arsenal. These statement wins were a turning point in Villa’s season. Moreover, they made it to the Europa Conference League semi-finals but unfortunately lost to Olympiacos.
Aston Villa lost with a 6-2 aggregate. The Greek side went on to win the finals by defeating Fiorentina yesterday. Although Aston Villa’s last five games weren’t as great as expected, they secured their top-four spot after their draw to Liverpool and Tottenham’s loss to Manchester City. The Villans were remarkable this time around in comparison to their performance last season. The credit for their exceptional performance in this campaign has to be given to Unai Emery.
Unai Emery has become Aston Villa’s hero
Unai Emery came to Aston Villa in October 2022. The 52-year-old took over at Villa Park after the sacking of Steven Gerrard mid-season. When Emery began working, the Villans were 17th on the Premier League table. They had won only nine in 11 games. However, Emery’s tactics drastically gave them a boost and led them to finish 7th last season. This time around, their progress was seen on the field. The Villans were dominant against top teams including Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal. Furthermore, the player’s bond with the manager has been pleasing to the fans. The Villa defender, Matty Cash praised Emery just after the manager signed a five-year contract with Aston Villa.
Matty Cash said,
“There’s a lot detail that goes into it [his work]. We have so many individual and collective meetings on how you can improve. No disrespect to Gerrard – I think he was obviously a good manager – and he did well at Rangers. I just think Unai is another level really. Since he’s come in we’ve been nothing but brilliant.”
The Poland international also spoke about the difference in the results since Emery took over. Furthermore, considering the Spaniard is going to be at Villa Park for a long time, they could surely be successful in the seasons ahead.
The Villans are looking to sign a midfielder
According to reports, Aston Villa are keeping a close watch on Chelsea’s midfielder, Conor Gallagher. The 24-year-old’s contract with the Blues ends next summer. Gallagher added five goals and seven assists to his name this season in the Premier League. A move to Aston Villa will be ideal for the Englishman, keeping in mind he will get to play Champions League football in the upcoming season. However, Aston Villa have to tackle the Profitability and Sustainability Rule concerns. Additionally, Unai Emery is keen on signing the Lazio star, Matteo Guendouzi. Although Lazio are trying to keep the French midfielder, there is no decision taken yet. Additionally, no physical efforts have been made from Villa’s side for Gallagher or Guendouzi yet, however, they will make moves in the weeks ahead if they are eager to sign either of them.
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