Monchi reveals what has changed at Aston Villa after Unai Emery arrived
Monchi believes Unai Emery has turned Aston Villa into “one of the strongest teams in England” since taking the reins in 2022.
In an interview with Sky Italia, as quoted by GOAL (Tuesday, 15 October), the Spaniard admitted that the Birmingham-based club were in a bad place before Emery’s arrival.
The Villa chief also expressed his delight at reuniting with the manager, having previously worked with him at Sevilla.
“Something changed at Aston Villa with the arrival of Emery, before that the team were in difficulty”, Monchi said.
“We had already won three Europa Leagues in a row together with Sevilla and I am happy to work with him.
“Today we are one of the strongest teams in England and we have many fans.”
Unai Emery and Monchi crucial for Aston Villa success
Monchi is right about Emery’s influence on Aston Villa as the club finished fourth in the Premier League last season – a feat they last achieved in 1996.
With the Spanish tactician at the helm, the Birmingham outfit are in the mix for another top-four finish and silverware this season.
One must also not overlook the importance of Monchi’s appointment as Villa’s president of football operations last year.
Monchi’s reputation in football circles speaks for itself and there is no doubt that he has increased the club’s pull in the transfer market as evidenced by the additions of Pau Torres, Amadou Onana and Ian Maatsen over the last two summer transfer windows.
It is therefore important that Villa retain Emery and Monchi’s services for a long time as they attempt to reclaim their glory days.
Emery’s deal at Villa Park runs until 2029, while Monchi is contracted until the end of next season.
There is a possibility that Monchi quits if his countryman leaves the club at some point.
In other Aston Villa news, Dan Bardell reckons Oliwier Zych could be fast-tracked to the first-team after his heroics against Bolton Wanderers.
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