Aston Villa are in discussions to bring in a new set-piece coach as part of a wider overhaul of their backroom staff, according to reports. The Premier League club, who have struggled from dead-ball situations in recent seasons, are looking to add specialist expertise to improve their performance in this area.
The news comes as Villa prepare for the upcoming campaign, with head coach Unai Emery eager to strengthen his coaching team. The club's recruitment drive is focused on both playing personnel and behind-the-scenes staff, with set-piece coaching emerging as a priority.
Villa's Set-Piece Struggles
Villa's record from set pieces has been a concern for supporters. Last season, they ranked in the bottom half of the Premier League for goals scored from dead-ball situations, converting just 11% of their opportunities. Defensively, they also conceded a number of goals from corners and free-kicks, leading to criticism from pundits and fans alike.
According to data from the Premier League, Villa scored only eight goals from set pieces during the 2023-24 campaign, compared to the league average of 12. This statistic highlights the need for improvement, and the club's hierarchy is now acting to address the issue.
Emery's Coaching Overhaul
Unai Emery, who took charge at Villa Park in October 2022, has been credited with transforming the team's overall style of play. However, he is known for his meticulous attention to detail, and set-piece coaching is an area he has sought to enhance since his arrival. The Spanish coach has previously worked with dedicated set-piece specialists at his former clubs, including Arsenal and Villarreal.
The identity of the new coach has not been confirmed, but reports suggest Villa are targeting an individual with a strong track record in the Premier League. The appointment would follow a trend across the division, with clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Brentford all employing dedicated set-piece coaches in recent years.
Impact on Villa's Season
Improving set-piece efficiency could have a significant impact on Villa's fortunes. With the club competing in the Europa Conference League and aiming for a top-six finish in the league, every advantage counts. A specialist coach could help Villa convert more chances from corners and free-kicks, as well as shore up their defensive organisation.
Fans will be eager to see how this potential appointment translates into results on the pitch. The club's next match is scheduled for the start of the new season in August, giving the new coach time to implement their methods during pre-season training.
Reaction and Speculation
News of the talks has generated excitement among the Villa fanbase, with many taking to social media to express their approval. One fan commented, "Finally, we're addressing a long-standing weakness. This could be the difference in tight games." Another added, "Emery knows what he's doing. Trust the process."
While official confirmation is yet to be made, the club is expected to announce the appointment in the coming weeks. Villa's sporting director, Monchi, is believed to be overseeing the recruitment process, working alongside Emery to identify the ideal candidate.
Conclusion
Aston Villa's pursuit of a new set-piece coach demonstrates their ambition to compete at the highest level. By addressing a key area of weakness, they are showing a commitment to continuous improvement. If the appointment is successful, it could prove to be a shrewd move that pays dividends throughout the season.
