Why Leon Goretzka a better tactical fit for Aston Villa after nightmare Joao Gomes debut
Leon Goretzka may be the saviour Unai Emery needs at Aston Villa.
The former Bayern Munich midfielder has joined the Villans on a free transfer.
It wouldn't be surprising to see the Germany international come straight into the mix against Arsenal in the Premier League.
Joao Gomes made his competitive debut against Brighton and Hove Albion but was sent off and will serve a minimum three-match suspension, leaving the door open for Goretzka to start the next games.
The Spanish manager doesn't have a lot of quality options at his disposal after the recent summer exodus from Villa Park.
What the 4-0 loss at the Amex Stadium also suggested is that the Lions need different personnel in their engine room.
Why Leon Goretzka will be long-term starter for Aston Villa
Emery personally called Goretzka to convince him to make a move to Villa.
It's clear that the Spanish manager values the former Bayern Munich midfielder highly, with his Champions League experience undoubtedly pivotal for the Villans this season.
While Gomes is a more defensive-minded midfielder capable of breaking up play and stopping counters, Goretzka is a forward-thinking player.
The German's box-to-box traits could certainly give the Lions' midfield better balance if he plays alongside Boubacar Kamara.
Last season, Goretzka scored five goals in the Bundesliga and could've had more, missing six big chances, as per Sofascore.
The midfielder also provided three assists and created three big chances, averaging 0.7 key passes per game.
With 91 per cent passing accuracy, the German star can be trusted in possession and can also contribute defensively, winning almost half his total duels last season.
What Unai Emery's midfield could look like at Aston Villa
Unless further additions are made in the engine room before the transfer deadline, Emery's first-choice midfield trio should be clear.
Fans in B6 will hope Kamara stays fit and provides the stability needed in the engine room as the deepest midfielder.
Alongside the France international, Goretzka should be the one to get the nod ahead of someone like Gomes.
In the number 10 position, it wouldn't be surprising to see Johan Manzambi be Morgan Rogers' successor and take the reins at Villa Park.
With John McGinn on the right and Alejandro Garnacho possibly on the left-wing, the Lions surely have enough quality to be much better than they showed against Brighton.