Unai Emery
Ezri Konsa’s journey to the England national team has been a testament to his growth and development under the guidance of Aston Villa manager Unai Emery. Since Emery replaced Steven Gerrard, Konsa’s performance has notably improved, making him a key player for both club and country. Despite having the option to represent Portugal due to his heritage, Konsa’s commitment to England has been a significant milestone in his career.
Unai Emery said: “I’m so, so happy with him. Of course, his development here, since we arrived, is the consequence of how he’s now involved with the national team and playing consistently. With us, he played consistently. He had different roles — playing as a right full-back, as well centre-back — and the most important is how he is getting himself with the challenges to get into the national team, to be demanding himself, to take more responsibility building up with the ball. This is his development which I appreciate a lot, because when I was demanding with him, he was responding very well, getting those demands. Hopefully, he can continue improving and getting better, playing with England. The players arrived back from the national teams. Overall, we have to be proud of how we are adding more players in the national teams. Of course, we are happy about it. In case they are playing as well at the World Cup next year, we have to be proud of everything we are working here collectively and improving as well individually, and getting more players in the national team. With Konsa especially as well, really, it is fantastic how he’s progressing, because even when we were speaking this morning, he was in doubt two years ago which national team he would like to play for. He could play for different national teams. And of course, the first one was England and now he’s playing with England.”
Unai Emery added: “I spoke with him, I don’t remember exactly, one year and a half ago, about this situation, and he told me about the possibility of playing for different national teams.”
Konsa’s versatility on the field, having played both as a right full-back and a centre-back, has been instrumental in his selection for the national team. Emery’s emphasis on Konsa taking more responsibility and building up play with the ball has been a crucial part of his development. This adaptability and growth have not only benefited Konsa but also Aston Villa, as the club sees more of its players being recognized on the international stage.
The decision for Konsa to represent England, despite his eligibility to play for Portugal, highlights his commitment and ambition. Emery’s influence and guidance have played a significant role in Konsa’s journey, as the manager has consistently challenged him to meet higher standards. This progress is a reflection of the collective and individual improvements being made at Aston Villa under Emery’s leadership.
As Konsa continues to represent England, his development remains a point of pride for both Emery and the club. With the potential to feature in the World Cup next year, Konsa’s journey serves as an inspiration for other players at Villa, demonstrating the possibilities that come with dedication and hard work.
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