Emery urges progress at Aston Villa

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has called for his team to elevate their performance as they embark on a new season in the Champions League. After a surprising fourth-place finish in the Premier League last year, Emery emphasized the importance of not resting on their laurels and maintaining their position among the top clubs. He expressed a desire for the team to demonstrate consistency and ambition as they aim to secure a top-four finish once again. Villa kicked off their Premier League campaign with a 2-1 victory against West Ham, but Emery views the upcoming home match against Arsenal as a crucial test of his squad's capabilities. Reflecting on the club's recent history, he noted that Villa's trajectory has been upward, but he is keen to ensure that the team continues to progress and strengthen its competitive edge. "I don’t want to waste time here myself as a coach," he stated, highlighting the need for a shared mentality among players. Emery, who took charge in October 2022, is determined to instill a culture of hard work and ambition within the squad. He acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly in facing formidable opponents like Arsenal, who are considered favorites for the league title this season. The manager's focus remains on achieving the club's objectives while fostering a dream of sustained success in European competition. As Villa prepares to face Arsenal, Emery's message is clear: the team must strive for excellence and consistency to solidify their place among the elite in both domestic and European football.