Unai Emery baffles with Donyell Malen call ahead of Aston Villa clash vs Brentford
Donyell Malen remains on the bench for Aston Villa as they take on Brentford at The Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday.
John McGinn has again been selected over the Dutchman, who is struggling against “preferential treatment” by Unai Emery, Martin Allen exclusively told Villa News.
Malen had been expected to start against Brentford, after playing just six minutes of action in Villa’s Premier League opener against Newcastle United.
But the winger will have to continue to bide his time, with Evann Guessand also now vying for minutes in the attack.
Donyell Malen’s patience will not last forever
Emery’s decision to stick with McGinn on the right of the attack has faced increasing criticism in recent weeks.
The Scot is often unable to make an impression going forward, and leaves Villa lacking width.
Malen had impressed in pre-season, starring in games against Frankfurt and St Louis SC and leading fans to expect his introduction into the starting picture for Emery.
But the winger’s absence against Brentford has further bemused fans, with the 26-year-old likely wondering himself what he must do to gain his manager’s trust.
Indeed, it seems a baffling decision from Emery on the face of it.
| Donyell Malen | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Minutes played | 298′ |
| Goals | 3 |
Malen joined Villa in January, in a deal that would see the Villans pay an initial fee worth around £21million to Borussia Dortmund.
The forward’s first half-season at the club contained bright spots, with a run of three goals in three games falling in April against Brighton, Nottingham Forest, and Southampton.
Starts were hard to come by, but that was to be expected of a player arriving in the middle of a season in which Villa were focused on three different competitions.
With a new season upon us, however, patience for the forward’s chance is starting to wear thin.
Unai Emery risks disincentivising his squad
Results will always be at the top of Emery’s priority list when it comes to Villa.
The Spaniard is hungry to put his team back among the discussions for European football this season, and a trophy is on the hitlist.
But Emery must exercise caution in the way he favours certain players. Squad harmony is incredibly important, and dolling out chances for those who have earned them is a crucial component.
Malen’s wait for a starting role will not only demotivate him, but also his teammates who find themselves in similar positions.
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