Aston Villa midfielder Emiliano Buendia has sustained a ‘significant knee injury’ in training which could potentially see him ruled out for six months.
The club announced this afternoon that the Argentine has undergone a scan, before seeing a knee specialist.
For a typical knee ligament injury, up to six months on the sidelines is usual.
What will Aston Villa lose without Emi Buendia?
Buendia is an all-action, industrial attacking midfielder who provides a different style of play to what else is available in the Villa squad.
Under Unai Emery, the Argentine played as a wide midfielder and also as a second striker. This versatility will be sorely missed while he is out.
Alongside Jacob Ramsey, he provided a driving force through the Villa midfield. With both injured, the Villains will have to look for a different means of creating goals.
Some fans have felt that, since his highly anticipated move from Norwich City, he may not have lived up to the high expectations set.
Despite this, Buendia is a top player who provides a great point of difference in the Villa squad, whether he is starting or coming off the bench.
His passion is something fans will miss as he gives everything and clearly cares every time he steps on the pitch.
Do Aston Villa need to replace Emiliano Buendia?
This is a hard question to ponder.
With Moussa Diaby and Leon Bailey, Villa already have senior options who can play in wide areas and as a second striker alongside Ollie Watkins.
Youngster Jaden Philogene-Bidace appears to be staying at Villa Park this season and will be a vital member of the squad now without Buendia.
From a different angle, Youri Tielemans has been impressing Villa fans in pre season and could be an option to play off the left as one of Emery’s wide midfielders.
With his positive dribbling, ability to pick out a pass and score from range, he could be a superb option.
Nicolo Zaniolo has been linked with the Villains, which seems to be in response to this injury.
He would provide similar qualities to Buendia which would be a benefit. At £30 million, he may cost too much considering Buendia and Ramsey will be back.
