Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has singled out one positive from Villa’s 4-1 defeat to Columbus Crew.
Aston Villa’s unbeaten start to pre-season came to an end in the early hours of Sunday morning, as Columbus Crew beat Villa 4-1.
The MLS side shocked many by stunning Unai Emery’s squad, who conceded four goals in only 52 minutes.
Cameron Archer netted Villa’s only goal of the contest however, it was another player who earned high praise from the manager.
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Unai Emery reacts to Emi Buendia’s return to action for Aston Villa against Columbus Crew
In the second half, Emery introduced Emi Buendia to the game, as the Argentine made his first appearance for Villa in almost a year.
The 27-year-old has had a gruelling time on the sidelines recovering from an ACL injury, a blow that ended his 2023/24 campaign before it even started.
After working tirelessly to get back amongst the squad before the start of the 2024/25 calendar, Buendia played 27 minutes against Columbus, which Emery singled out as a high point, via Villa’s official website.
“The best news is his comeback, Emiliano Buendía’s comeback after one year.
“We are happy with his return and we have to work now with him trying to get the best of him progressively.
“The first 30 minutes he played, really, is fantastic for us and for the team.”
It was pre-season of 2023 that Buendia looked as though he was finally ready to burst onto the scene at Villa, with his injury coming at a devastating time.
Buendia will be important to Villa this season
Having looked lively on his return to action, Villa fans will be delighted to see Buendia back on the pitch after a cruel year.
The Argentine will now be focused on showcasing his full potential in claret and blue, having had a lacklustre few seasons at the club following his transfer from Norwich City.
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After not having Buendia available last term, Emery’s squad will be bolstered by the attacking midfielder’s return, with the 27-year-old being able to add critical depth to the manager’s options going forward.
For now, Buendia will be firmly focused on the rest of pre-season ahead, giving the former Norwich star the chance to show his worth to Villa ahead of the bustling 2024/25 calendar.
