How Emi Buendia responded to Aston Villa contract question after Viking display
Emi Buendia played his part in Aston Villa's 3-1 win over Viking on Wednesday night.
Unai Emery's side maintained their perfect start to their Champions League campaign this season at Villa Park.
Villa were always favourites to beat the Norwegian champions, and they did so in comfortable fashion.
Ross Barkley opened the scoring on 23 minutes, before Buendia doubled the Villains' advantage from the penalty spot in the 37th minute.
A Henrik Heggheim own goal made it three just after the hour mark, before Viking did bag a consolation goal in the 84th minute through Peter Christiansen.
After the full-time whistle blew, Buendia was quizzed on his Villa Park future.
What does Emi Buendia believe he 'always shows' for Aston Villa?
Having first joined Villa in the summer of 2021, this is now Buendia's fifth season contracted in B6.
Last season was his best in the West Midlands to date, and he's once again playing at a top level under Emery so far in 2026-27.
The 29-year-old is, however, out of contract at the end of this season, which is a situation that requires addressing ASAP.
A recent report from The Athletic claims that Buendia is on the verge of inking a new deal at Villa Park, but nothing official has emerged yet.
TNT Sports pulled the Argentine over for a post-match interview on Wednesday night, and asked him if he had any news on the contract talks.
"Yes, obviously I always show how happy I'm here," he replied.
"I show I think a lot how I love this club, so I try to enjoy every day and then we see what's happening in the future.
"But obviously, pleased and grateful with all the supporters here."
Aside from his goal then, just how good was Buendia against Viking and will his performance only increase Villa's desire to speed up his contract talks?
Where did Buendia lead all players in Aston Villa vs Viking?
Operating in the number 10 role in place of the injured Johan Manzambi, Buendia was superb against Viking.
It was a performance that once again highlighted his versatility and ability to make a big impact on the game, whether that be from out wide or central positions.
Per FotMob, no player on the pitch created more chances (three) or took more shots (seven) than Buendia in this game.
Meanwhile, he also took seven touches in Viking's box, was accurate with his lone cross attempt, made two recoveries and won a foul to boot.
Buendia could've easily scored more than the one goal he did, however, missing three big chances and putting three of his efforts off target.
Overall though, Buendia was exactly what a number 10 should be on Wednesday: lively, creative, getting shots off and being a constant thorn.
It was a clear message sent from Buendia to Villa Park chiefs that he's still one of Emery's top players, and that they'd be wise to hand him fresh terms.