Unai Emery has downplayed the growing chorus of supporters who already anoint him as the next European king, but the facts on the ground suggest that...
Unai Emery has downplayed the growing chorus of supporters who already anoint him as the next European king, but the facts on the ground suggest that the Aston Villa manager is on the verge of delivering a monumental piece of silverware to the claret and blue faithful. The Villans travel to Istanbul on Wednesday with a singular objective: to end a 30 year trophy drought that has hung over the club like a heavy cloud. GoalZaza understands that Emery, a man who has won the Europa League four times, is the architect of a side that no longer fears any opponent on the continent. In his pre match conference, the Spanish tactician refused to claim the lion. �s share of the credit, insisting that the entire squad must give a good account of themselves under the Turkish floodlights. However, at the end of the day, the powers that be in the Aston Villa boardroom know that Emery. �s tactical acumen has transformed a mid table outfit into a formidable European force. The Nigerian international in the Villa ranks, though not a starter every week, has been a stalwart presence in the dressing room, absorbing lessons from a manager who knows exactly how to navigate knockout football. The clash in Istanbul presents a golden chance for the club to inscribe its name on a continental prize once more. Emery. �s men have been clinical in the build up play and resilient at the back, qualities that will be tested against a determined opponent. With the Super Eagles talisman watching from the bench or pitch, the match carries extra resonance for the millions of Nigerian fans who follow the Premier League with religious devotion. Back home in Lagos and Abuja, the viewing centers will be packed to the rafters. When the Villa anthem bellows from the speakers, fans in Surulere and Wuse will rise as one, clutching their bottles of Malta Guinness and shouting instructions at the screen as if Emery himself could hear them. For the Nigerian supporter who has watched the English top flight for decades, seeing a manager of Emery. �s pedigree lead a historic charge is a story that stirs deep passion. And if the Villans lift the trophy, the celebrations in these viewing centers will echo long into the Lagos night, a fitting tribute to a club that dared to dream again.
