Is Emery's Villa Losing Its Edge as a Champions League Contender?

Published: 2025-09-13 18:08:34 | Category: sport
Aston Villa's dismal start to the 2023-2024 Premier League season has drawn attention following their inability to score in the first four league matches, marking a historic low for the club. Under the management of Unai Emery, Villa has collected just two points from these encounters, raising concerns about their attacking capabilities and overall performance as they aim for a more successful campaign than last year.
Last updated: 27 September 2023 (BST)
Key Takeaways
- Aston Villa has failed to score in their first four league games for the first time in club history.
- They currently sit with only two points from four matches, including three goalless draws.
- Emiliano Martinez's return has been a bright spot amid the team's struggles.
- Villa's attacking play has drastically declined compared to last season, with only four big chances created so far.
- The upcoming fixtures against Brentford and Sunderland will be crucial for reversing their fortunes.
Unai Emery's Challenges at Villa
Unai Emery took charge at Aston Villa in October 2022, inheriting a squad with high expectations after a strong finish from the previous season. However, the current campaign has started poorly, with Villa failing to score in their opening four league matches—a record that has frustrated fans and management alike.
Historic Low for Aston Villa
The recent goalless draw against Everton marked a turning point for Villa, as they became only the fifth team in Premier League history to start a season without scoring in their first four games, joining the ranks of Sheffield Wednesday, Newcastle United, Swansea City, and Crystal Palace. This statistic is particularly disheartening for a club that was on the brink of Champions League qualification just a few months prior.
Performance Analysis: A Dismal Display
During the match against Everton, Villa's performance was lacklustre, with the home side dominating possession and creating more significant chances. Villa's attacking players, including Ollie Watkins, struggled to make an impact. Despite having a few opportunities, such as Emiliano Buendia's deflected shot, Villa was unable to seriously threaten the Everton goal.
Emiliano Martinez: A Silver Lining
One of the few positives from the match was Emiliano Martinez's outstanding performance in goal. The Argentine goalkeeper made several crucial saves, including a standout stop from Michael Keane's header, ensuring Villa left with a point. His return to form is vital as Villa look to build defensive confidence amidst their attacking woes.
Comparing Last Season to Now
A stark contrast can be seen when comparing Villa's current situation to their performance last season. At this same stage last year, Villa had scored seven goals and created 16 big chances. This season, they have mustered only four chances across four games, a clear indicator of their struggles in front of goal.
Emery's Tactical Adjustments
In the aftermath of the draw, Emery acknowledged the need for tactical changes to improve Villa's offensive play. He emphasised the importance of supporting strikers and wingers to create better goal-scoring opportunities. "We need to try to help out strikers, wingers and midfielders," he stated, highlighting the deficiencies that have plagued the team this season.
Upcoming Fixtures: A Crucial Period for Villa
With their current form, Aston Villa will need to quickly address their attacking issues as they face Brentford in the Carabao Cup and then travel to newly promoted Sunderland in the league. These matches will be pivotal in determining whether Villa can regain their momentum and turn the season around.
What Went Wrong?
Several factors have contributed to Villa's poor start, including a lack of creativity in midfield and ineffective service to forwards. Players like Harvey Elliott, who was brought in on loan from Liverpool, will need to step up and inject some dynamism into the attack. Meanwhile, Ollie Watkins' struggle for form has further compounded the problem.
Managing Expectations
As a club with aspirations of competing for European football, the pressure is mounting on Emery to rectify the situation. The early season struggles have left fans and pundits questioning whether Villa can rediscover the form that nearly secured them a Champions League spot last season. The manager's experience will be crucial in navigating this challenging period.
The Importance of Team Cohesion
Building a cohesive unit will be essential as Villa seeks to improve. The team must work together, both defensively and offensively, to create a more balanced approach. Emery's tactics will need to focus on enhancing communication and synergy among players to foster a more attacking mindset.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Aston Villa?
As Aston Villa confronts one of its most challenging starts to the Premier League season, the focus will be on regaining confidence and rediscovering their attacking flair. The upcoming fixtures provide an opportunity to change the narrative and move away from this disappointing phase. Emery's ability to adapt and galvanise his squad will be vital going forward.
How will Aston Villa respond to their poor start? With crucial matches on the horizon, there is still time to turn the tide. #AVFC #PremierLeague #UnaiEmery
FAQs
What is Aston Villa's current league position?
Aston Villa is currently struggling in the Premier League, with only two points from four matches, placing them towards the lower end of the table.
When was the last time Villa failed to score in four consecutive league matches?
This is the first time Aston Villa has failed to score in their opening four league games in club history. Their last similar run occurred during the 2014-2015 season.
Who has been the standout player for Villa this season?
Emiliano Martinez has been the standout player, delivering impressive performances in goal, including crucial saves that have kept Villa in matches despite their lack of scoring.
What tactical changes is Unai Emery considering?
Emery is looking to enhance the team's offensive play by supporting strikers and improving midfield creativity, aiming to create more scoring opportunities.
What are the upcoming fixtures for Aston Villa?
Aston Villa's upcoming fixtures include a Carabao Cup match against Brentford and a Premier League match against newly promoted Sunderland.