‘Emery must regret Donyell Malen decision’ after what happened at Aston Villa
Donyell Malen has proven his worth for Aston Villa since signing from Borussia Dortmund in the winter.
The Netherlands international has already become a fan favourite with the Villa faithful despite a general lack of minutes in claret and blue.
Unai Emery did afford the 26-year-old a start against Nottingham Forest before benching him once again for the trip to face Southampton.
It is fair to say that the former PSV youngster has showcased his ability and attitude when given the chance, which may leave the Villa boss in a regretful mood.
Malen scores again for Aston Villa
The versatile forward became the first signing of the winter at B6 when he linked up with former Dortmund teammate Ian Maatsen at Bodymoor Heath.
With that being said, the number 17 has managed to make just 10 appearances and, until recently, had struggled to make an impact in such a limited time.
| Stat (Premier League 24/25) | Donyell Malen |
| Appearances | 9 |
| Minutes | 257 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Chances created | 2 |
| Duels won | 14 |
This wasn’t helped by the fact that Malen was dumped from the Champions League squad as Emery was forced into dropping two of his new signings.
The Spaniard ultimately went on to axe the Dutchman and Andres Garcia from the side, but that hasn’t resulted in increased league minutes.
This has changed somewhat in the past two weeks with the man signed from the Bundesliga proving his worth in the squad.
Malen netted against Southampton to make it three in three after also getting on the scoresheet in wins against Brighton and Nottingham Forest.
This sort of impact as a starter and a bench option is surely leaving Emery with questions as to why he wasn’t included in his European squad.
Malen continues to have Aston Villa impact
The Villans are continuing to build a superb squad in B6, and Malen is just another cog in the machine under Emery.
It is unfortunate that the versatile frontman is lacking in minutes, but such is the quality around him right now.
He will feel that the form of Marcus Rashford hasn’t represented the number of starts he has been receiving, which will only increase frustrations.
The Dutchman isn’t letting that show and is continuing to get better, which is bound to only increase Emery’s regret of not including him in his Champions League squad.