Aston Villa is gearing up for a critical end to their Premier League campaign, with the aim of securing a top-five finish and a return to the Champions League. Despite a recent setback at Wembley against Crystal Palace, Villa remains focused on achieving their primary objective of European qualification. This goal has been a driving force since their season opener against West Ham at the London Stadium. Manager Unai Emery remains optimistic about the club’s future, emphasizing the broader development plans in place at Villa Park.
Unai Emery said: “No, no. I think the pride of the owners is strong and consistent. Of course, we are achieving our objectives in the club’s development – across everything – through playing in Europe. Consistency is our objective. But if we are not achieving it, we will continue preparing for the next year. We are building a hotel here; we are doing some work around the club here for the women’s football, for the academy. I think the club is working a lot to improve Villa Park. We are going to try to add another 10,000 supporters in Villa Park. I think it could be something that can help us to improve. The club is not stopping, and the sporting objective we can achieve, as well as possible of course, is helping our process. This is our demand, and this is our highest standard. We are trying to get our objective more ambitious than before – but in everything.”
He continued: “The players that want to be here with us – they are the players I want, as well, to manage and to work with. I have to expect as well, because the club was working before with other workers as well, and professional coaches or workers. I respect how they did. When I arrived here, we were carrying on with a different way, but trying to get, as well, as strong as possible the club, and try to really keep consistency in our way and our objective of getting better. Of course, Europe is one really significant objective we are achieving, and testing how we are doing this way – improving and getting better. Then, with other things as well, it’s very important. For example, in Villa Park, around Villa Park – everything – the club is working. Here in the training ground, we have a fantastic training ground. We are ambitious to try to get better. We improve a lot here as well with the kitchen and every day here – the breakfast, the lunch as well. We are improving as well in everything.”
Emery’s comments highlight the club’s commitment to long-term growth, both on and off the pitch. The development of Villa Park, including plans to expand its capacity, underscores the ambition to enhance the matchday experience for fans. Additionally, investments in the club’s infrastructure, such as the academy and women’s football, reflect a holistic approach to building a sustainable future. Emery’s focus on consistency and improvement suggests that, regardless of the outcome this season, Aston Villa is poised for continued progress.
In addition to their on-field ambitions, Aston Villa is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a range of commemorative merchandise. From anniversary shirts to polo shirts and scarves, the club’s official store offers fans a chance to showcase their pride and passion. This merchandise not only marks a significant milestone in the club’s history but also serves as a testament to its enduring legacy and commitment to its supporters.
