Unai Emery
In a thrilling encounter at the Holte End, Boubacar Kamara’s stunning strike from outside the box proved to be the decisive moment as Aston Villa edged past Wolves. Kamara’s goal, delivered with his weaker left foot, not only secured the win but also highlighted Villa’s remarkable trend this season of scoring from long range. Despite a low ranking in expected goals, Villa’s ability to find the net from distance has been a consistent feature of their campaign, marking them as the only team in Premier League history to have over half of their goals scored from outside the box in a single season.
Unai Emery said: “We are working and analysing deeply everything. Of course, we spoke about it. Last year we needed goals. We lost out on the top five with goals. I am always worried about something we need to improve. In our demands, we are trying to identify where we have been weak or where we can improve clearly, even when we are winning. We are not scoring a lot of goals. We are being defensively strong and keeping clean sheets. We want to score goals and individually get numbers.”
Unai Emery added: “As expected. Not easy, tough game but huge win. Thanks for your support as always, we really needed. So proud of our players, staff and Unai. To play and prepare a game between Friday and Sunday afternoon means a short time and a big effort – physical and mainly mental- Having just one full training and 36 hours sometimes to rest and focus in a new game that opposition prepares carefully during 4/5 days and fresh legs and mind. Wolves played extremely physical as they knew. They played well. And If our team scores from the box, out of the box, set pieces or from the moon, what that means is that they are clever and well trained enough to find different ways to win. Every team studies us and tries to stop our way of playing. We’ve been able to adapt to circumstances. For the record: last eight matches form: best in points, second best in defence and… second team in attack (15 G). UTV!!!”
Villa’s defensive solidity has been another cornerstone of their success this season. After 13 matches, they have conceded significantly fewer goals compared to the previous campaign, underscoring their progress under Emery. Emiliano Martinez’s crucial saves, including a key stop from Yerson Mosquera, have been vital in maintaining Villa’s defensive record. Emery praised his goalkeeper’s focus and contribution to the team’s consistency and high standards.
Unai Emery said: “Brilliant, brilliant. He was so, so focused. This victory – also their 30th of the year – was Emery’s 61st Premier League win as Villa manager. We are trying to set the standards high and our level high in our consistency. We grew up here in three years. This moment we had today is an experience. We believe in the difficult moment and believe in getting our consistency. We must understand that each match is to try and get our best. The table is, of course, now better how we can see it. We are going to be humble and realistic. We will focus on each match. We have Brighton away on Wednesday.”
A tactical decision saw Donyell Malen start ahead of Ollie Watkins, despite Watkins’ recent goal drought. Emery’s choice reflected a strategic approach to the game, considering both collective structure and individual form. Watkins, who has been dealing with a fitness issue, remains a crucial figure in Villa’s lineup, and his return against Brighton could be pivotal.
The victory against Wolves not only showcased Villa’s adaptability and resilience but also emphasized their ability to secure points through diverse scoring methods. As they prepare for their upcoming match against Brighton, Emery’s focus on maintaining consistency and improving goal-scoring will be central to their continued success.
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