Emery: Top eight in Europa League 'a minimum' for Aston Villa
Aston Villa aim to recover from a surprising Europa League defeat, with Unai Emery emphasizing the importance of finishing in the top eight.
Current Standings and Recent Results
Villa currently stand 10th in the Europa League group. After victories against Bologna and Feyenoord, they were unexpectedly beaten 2-1 by Go Ahead Eagles. Despite this, they remain just three points behind the group leaders.
Significance of Upcoming Match
The next fixture against Maccabi Tel Aviv is crucial. A win could elevate Villa into the top eight halfway through the group stage.
Home Record under Emery
- In three years, Villa have won 12 out of 14 home European games under Emery, including qualifiers and domestic league matches.
- They have won all four home European matches in 2025 so far.
Emery's Objectives and Experience
"The only idea is to be the first in the table, but with our experience three years ago in the Conference League and last year in the Champions League and how we were managing in different moments – the process."
"Our objective is to win every match, but we lost one."
Emery is determined to avoid the knockout round playoffs, as Villa had to face in the Champions League last season.
Author's Summary
Unai Emery sets a high standard for Aston Villa in the Europa League, aiming for a top-eight finish to build on their promising home form and recent experience.