Unai Emery has helped transform Aston Villa on and off the pitch since his appointment in 2022.
The style of play at Villa Park is evident. From the team’s super high line to their patient build-up play. It’s a joy to watch for fans across the world.
On Saturday, Aston Villa secured a comeback win over Everton, with the attacking players stealing the headlines, especially one Jhon Duran.
Ollie Watkins netted a brace and began the comeback, before Duran scored a stunning winner for Villa from the bench to send the whole stadium, even the opposition supporters, in shock.
But there are two other players, who Jamie Carragher was keen to give his plaudits to, and how crucial they are to Aston Villa‘s build-up play.
Youri Tielemans has made a stunning start to the new Premier League season and was crucial to the side securing Champions League football last time out.
It’s crazy that, amid so many midfield players getting signed for £100 million, Villa brought him in on a free transfer last summer following Leicester City’s relegation.
Carragher stated how he ‘always wants the ball’, alongside centre-back Pau Torres, another player who has helped transform the style of play in B6.
The Liverpool legend was commentating the win over Everton and stated that he lost count at the number of passes those two players made in the game, as he told Sky Sports Premier League (14/09/24 at 7:20 pm).
Youri Tielemans and Pau Torres’ bravery on the ball
“We talk about Everton not being brave on the ball,” said Carragher. “I think those two players there, the centre-back Torres and Tielemans in midfield.
“I am not sure how many passes they have had. But they are always wanting the ball and receiving the ball. Being brave and enticing the opposition onto them.”
Aston Villa’s style of play
In the Premier League, Villa have remained patient and continued to back themselves on the ball, regardless of the opposition.
It’s a key reason why they are now playing in Europe’s elite competition, but now it’s a different level in the Champions League.
Villa begin their Champions League campaign on Tuesday night when they face Young Boys in Switzerland.
Especially on the road in Europe, Villa need to keep that ball rolling because if they can impose their style of football, that patience on the ball and high line, then the team will go to another level.
