Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has disclosed the crucial phone call he made to former Manchester United playmaker Juan Mata that helped secure the signing of defender Victor Lindelof.
The Manager's Due Diligence
Before offering a contract to the then-free agent, Emery sought an insider's perspective on the Swedish international. He turned to Mata, a player he had previously coached in Spain and who had shared a dressing room with Lindelof at Old Trafford for five years. The conversation took place ahead of the summer 2025 transfer deadline day, when Lindelof ultimately joined Villa on a free transfer.
"I called Juan Mata, who was his teammate at Manchester United three or four years ago," Emery explained. "I coached Mata in Spain. He is a fantastic guy and an intelligent guy. I called him to speak about the possibility of signing Lindelof. I asked about him as a player, a person, and his commitment."
Mata's Glowing Endorsement
The feedback from Mata was resoundingly positive, and Emery says the defender has lived up to every word. "Everything he told me, we are watching," the Villa boss stated. "Fantastic guy. Very professional. Respectful."
Lindelof, who spent seven years at Manchester United, initially had to be patient for his opportunity at Villa Park. He adapted to playing on the right side of defence before injuries to key players thrust him into a more prominent role.
Seizing the Opportunity
An injury to Pau Torres in Villa's win over Arsenal in early December proved to be a turning point. With Torres and long-term absentee Tyrone Mings both sidelined, Lindelof has stepped up impressively. The 30-year-old has started the club's last six consecutive matches, predominantly on the left side of central defence, and has solidified Villa's backline.
"He was being patient and was first adapting to play on the right side, but after Mings and Pau's injuries, he played at the level we expected on the left," Emery noted. The manager added that Lindelof's experience has also had a positive influence within the Villa dressing room.
Emery is delighted with the defender's contribution and has challenged him to reach even greater heights. "I am, of course, so happy with how he is helping us. I told him that he has settled at the level here, and now he can up his level."
The shrewd piece of business, aided by a trusted recommendation, has provided Aston Villa with valuable defensive cover and proven leadership during a demanding part of the season.
