Unai Emery saluted Victor Lindelof after the defender starred in midfield to help Aston Villa reach the Europa League final. The Sweden international excelled in the middle of the park after Emery made the surprise decision to play him there in Thursday's 4-0 semi-final second leg thrashing of Nottingham Forest.
A Surprise Decision That Paid Off
Lindelof has played the vast majority of his career in central defence and had made just two brief substitute appearances in midfield for Villa earlier in the season. But Emery's decision to change his position, with Amadou Onana absent through injury, proved a masterstroke and helped Villa to dominate the game. The 31-year-old joined the club as a free agent last September after eight years at Manchester United.
Emery's Explanation
Emery said: "It is something we have done this season—Lindelof has played as a midfielder. I spoke to him about the possibility. Without Kamara and Onana, we also played McGinn in midfield. But understanding what we needed overall—with set-pieces and an experienced player—Lindelof is a fantastic guy and professional. He has played many matches like this. I didn't need to explain much to him to get the game plan as we wanted overall. Lamare Bogarde helps us a lot in different positions, but today I decided, after analysing everything, to play him (Lindelof)."
Looking Ahead to the Final
Villa will now face Freiburg in the final on May 20, looking to win their first major trophy for 30 years. Emery has urged his players to remain grounded with three matches of the Premier League season still to play. Villa could secure a top-five finish and Champions League football with a win at Burnley on Sunday. Emery added: "We can feel happy and proud, but also maintain balance because there is still a final to play. There is a 50/50 chance for both teams. German teams have good players, good coaches, and a strong competitive approach. Everything we do is to enjoy it."
