Unai Emery’s 1-year anniversary at Aston Villa: A closer look at his success

Aston Villa have become a completely different team over the past year, following the appointment of Unai Emery. The former Villarreal boss has completely transformed the club, where they have become regular contenders for European spots. 

They are playing the Europa Conference League this year, and are expected to compete for the top six this year again. The Villans are currently fifth in the table with 19 points from their first nine games, but are last in their Europa Conference League with three points from their first two games, level with all other teams.

Unai Emery’s transformation of Aston Villa has been nothing short of sensational 

After losing their way under Steven Gerrard, Emery returned to the Premier League having managed Arsenal in the past. Now, he has led the club to an 11-game winning run at home against the likes of Brighton, West Ham, Spurs and Newcastle United. 

They have also defeated the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool during this time, shedding their identity as relegation contenders. 

Villa have had their best start to a season in the 21st century under Unai Emery, while playing eye-catching football in the process. Their recruitment has played a big role behind their success, with the appointment of former Sevilla sporting director Monchi helping them reinforce their squad without spending a lot of money in comparison to other clubs.