Aston Villa's focus has quickly shifted from ending their season on a historic high to planning for an exciting but challenging campaign next term. Winning the Europa League not only ended Villa's 30-year wait for a major trophy but also confirmed their place in the Champions League for the 2026/27 season, though they had already qualified through their league position.
Outstanding Campaign and Financial Constraints
A fourth-placed finish in the Premier League rounded off an outstanding campaign, leaving fans wondering if Unai Emery could perform footballing alchemy by navigating financial regulations that impose a glass ceiling on all but the biggest revenue-generating clubs.
Transfer Budget and Key Departures
How much Villa can spend in the transfer market this summer will depend on how much they bring in, with endless reports about the future of crown jewel Morgan Rogers. However, it is clear that Villa need more bodies and quality, and those behind the scenes will be tasked with finding them.
Key Figures in Recruitment
BirminghamLive has identified the key figures responsible for providing Emery with the players he needs and wants. No deals will be done without Emery's consent, and while the manager may not be interrogating databases around the clock, he will give the final approval.
Sporting Director Roberto Olabe
Emery will be supported by sporting director Roberto Olabe, who replaced Monchi after last summer's window. Olabe worked with Emery at Almeria and was most recently director of football at Real Sociedad before joining Villa in September. Prior to that, he held roles at Real Valladolid, Independiente del Valle in Ecuador, Aspire, and the Qatar Football Association, and served as technical director of La Liga. At Real Sociedad, he was known for signing Alexander Isak for €15m from Borussia Dortmund and Takefusa Kubo from Real Madrid. In his first January window at Villa, he secured permanent deals for Tammy Abraham, Alysson, and Brian Madjo, while Douglas Luiz returned on loan.
Director of Football Operations Damian Vidagany
Olabe will oversee recruitment staff and work closely with Emery, while director of football operations Damian Vidagany focuses on day-to-day operations. Vidagany is fully aware of the financial regulations restricting Villa and will support Olabe.
Recruitment Staff
Behind the scenes, head of recruitment Bryn Davies has been in the role for two and a half years, previously serving as head of scouting. Ben Hackney took over as head of scouting operations and has risen through the analysis ladder over seven years. Chief scout Aaron Calvin joined Villa in 2022 after working as senior scout at Middlesbrough. Alberto Benito, a chief scout who worked with Emery at Almeria, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal, is involved in V Sports' global recruitment network.
What's Villa's Number One Transfer Priority?
Fans are invited to share their views on the club's top transfer priority this summer.
