“..One of the best squads in the league..” Aston Villa’s Unai Emery reveals his thoughts towards Man Utd

Aston Villa are coming off a big win against Bayern Munich but must quickly refocus on the Premier League.

Under Unai Emery, Aston Villa has gone from fighting relegation to competing in the Champions League. In contrast, their Sunday opponents, Manchester United, are struggling under Erik ten Hag.

Though Ten Hag has won two trophies in two years, Premier League performances have been poor. United have only two wins from six games this season, putting pressure on Ten Hag and giving Villa a chance to capitalize.

Still, Emery expects a tough game at Villa Park. Despite United’s rough start, Emery has praised their squad, calling them one of the best in the league. He emphasized their experienced manager, strong players, and winning tradition, warning his team not to be complacent.

Speaking in the matchday programme, he said of the visitors: “No doubt they (United) are one of the best squads in the league, a good experienced manager, filled with good players, and adding this huge tradition that also becomes a winning mentality and survival instinct in difficult moments.” Emery said

However, United have shown they can still pull off results, and they might do so at Villa Park. After the tough game against Bayern Munich, Emery will need his squad to step up for another crucial three points.

The threat United pose is clear from their head-to-head record. In the last five meetings, Villa have won just once, losing four times, including two defeats last season.

Their last victory came in November 2022, with a 3-1 win at Villa Park. Overall, Villa have 51 wins, 41 draws, and 106 defeats against Manchester United. Emery will be aiming to make it 52 wins and narrow the gap in their head-to-head history.