Following Aston Villa’s 1-0 home win over Fulham, Unai Emery, the club’s manager, has stressed the importance of their upcoming matches as they aim to secure a return to European football. The victory, which was secured by Tyrone Mings’ header in the 21st minute, was Villa’s eighth win in their 10-match unbeaten run, moving them up to fifth place in the Premier League.
With Tottenham just one point behind and hosting fourth-placed Manchester United on Thursday, Villa’s remaining fixtures include matches against Liverpool, Tottenham, and Brighton among their five remaining games. Despite their current position, Emery was cautious in his optimism, acknowledging the challenge ahead and emphasising the need to remain focused on the task at hand.
In an interview after the game, Emery was asked if he now expected his team to qualify for European football next season. He replied: “I have to try to be ambitious, to be realistic, and as well, play under pressure – because I like playing under pressure. Because when we play under pressure it is because we have something to do.”
He went on to explain that Villa is now a strong candidate for a European position, but highlighted the importance of upcoming fixtures, including matches against Liverpool, Tottenham, and Brighton, in maintaining their position in the league.
Despite their current form and position in the league, Emery acknowledged that his team still has a lot of work to do if they are to secure a return to European football. He said: “I think the dreams, they are here – OK, it is good I think for everybody, and we can share with our supporters. But I was speaking with the team – I like to play key matches. Like today.”
This season has seen a remarkable turnaround for Villa, who were 17th in the league and outside of the relegation zone on goals scored when they lost 3-0 to Fulham in October, in what was Emery’s predecessor Steven Gerrard’s final game in charge. Since then, the team has enjoyed an impressive run of form, which has seen them rise up the table and move within touching distance of a return to European competition.
Villa last played in Europe in 2010 when they were knocked out in the Europa League qualifying rounds. While Emery is keen to keep his players focused on the upcoming fixtures, there is no doubt that a return to European competition would be a significant achievement for the club and their fans.
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