Unai Emery
Aston Villa has received a timely boost with the return of Andres Garcia and Ross Barkley to training. Both players have yet to feature this season, but their presence in training ahead of the Europa League clash against Bologna at Villa Park on Thursday night has lifted spirits.
Unai Emery said: “Tomorrow, Bologna, a very good team. Last year, they were playing Champions League with us, they played here, we won, but it was a difficult match. The same coach, a lot of same players, the style, the idea they are more or less doing is the same. Very aggressive, man to man, it’s a difficult team. We are preparing the game, we are excited, we are wishing to start Europe. Our objective as well in Europe is to try get the first eight position, and we are starting tomorrow.”
Ross Barkley has been absent from the squad due to personal issues, as confirmed by manager Unai Emery. Despite not being included in the Europa League squad, Barkley’s return to training suggests he could feature in the upcoming Premier League fixture against Fulham. Meanwhile, Andres Garcia, who was selected for the Europa League squad, has been recovering from an injury. His return to training is a significant boost for Villa as they prepare for a demanding schedule.
Aston Villa is set to play four matches within ten days, including two Europa League group stage games. Following the Bologna match, Villa will travel to face Feyenoord next Thursday. Sandwiched between these European fixtures is a home game against Fulham on Sunday, followed by a clash with Burnley on October 5, just before the international break.
The return of key players like Garcia and Barkley will be crucial for Aston Villa as they navigate this challenging period. The team is eager to make a strong start in the Europa League, aiming for a top-eight finish in the competition. Emery’s side is well aware of the challenges posed by Bologna, a team known for its aggressive style and consistency under the same management.
Villa fans will be hopeful that the return of these players can provide the necessary depth and quality to compete on multiple fronts as they embark on their European campaign.
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