When Unai Emery took the reins at Aston Villa, it didn’t take long for fans to realize they had a top-notch coach on their hands. Inheriting a team that lacked identity and confidence, Emery worked his magic, transforming the Villans into a force to be reckoned with.
In his first match, Emery’s side stunned Manchester United 3-1, with only three changes from the XI that started the 3-0 defeat by Fulham that led to Steven Gerrard’s departure. The performance hinted at what was to come: renewed vigor, intense pressure, and a cutting edge worthy of a top-four spot.
Unai Emery has revolutionised Aston Villa and has a chance to haunt Arsenal this weekend
Villa have become one of the biggest challengers to the established order in the top-flight
Under Emery the Villans reached the Champions League for the first time in the Premier League era
But Emery’s success at Villa raises an intriguing question: why didn’t it work out at Arsenal? Despite his impressive credentials, including a French domestic treble with PSG and a fourth Europa League title, Emery’s time at Arsenal was marked by fits and starts, and ultimately, flawed structures.
Emery faced a tough task in following in the footsteps of Arsene Wenger, the greatest manager in Arsenal’s history. The club was in a state of flux, with a rush to revamp operations, but ultimately, it failed. The squad he inherited was a far cry from what it is now, and Emery had to fight for transfers that suited his style.
He faced a stern test at Arsenal in following in the footsteps from Gunners legend Arsene Wenger
Emery’s time at Arsenal was characterised by fits and starts and he lasted less than two seasons
Emery’s poor English skills also hindered his ability to communicate effectively with his players, and his press conferences were often attended by translators. Despite his best efforts, Emery was ultimately unable to turn things around, and he was sacked after less than two seasons.
Xhaka being booed off by Arsenal fans highlighted the disconnect at the club at the time
But Emery didn’t let his experience at Arsenal define him. He went on to win another Europa League title with Villarreal and honed his skills further, eventually becoming one of the most sought-after managers in the game.
And now, Emery has a chance to remind his former employers of what they missed out on, as Villa take on Arsenal this weekend. With his improved English skills and a fully-fledged squad at his disposal, Emery is ready to land an early title blow on the Gunners.
Emery has transformed Ollie Watkins into a world class striker and has improved the members of his squad
Emery did the double over his former side last season and has a chance to land an early title blow
Emery’s ability to get the best out of his players has been key to Villa’s success. He’s turned Ollie Watkins into a world-class striker, and improved the likes of Douglas Luiz, Lucas Digne, and Ezri Konsa. Villa have become a thorn in the side of the established order, and it’s largely down to Emery’s work.
This weekend, Emery has a chance to prove a point to his former employers and land an early title blow on Arsenal. It’s a chance for him to remind the Gunners of what they missed out on, and for Villa to continue their ascent up the Premier League table.