Aston Villa's teenage prospects demonstrated they belong on the biggest stage during the 2-1 European Super Cup final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in Salzburg, according to former defender Alan Hutton. He also backed Unai Emery's decision to leave three key players at home, insisting the manager will not face criticism for the call.
Brian Madjo made history as the youngest-ever scorer in the European Super Cup final, cancelling out Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's opener. Désiré Doué sealed PSG's win in the second half after a VAR overturn, but Villa's performance pushed the European champions close.
Young Stars Impress on Big Stage
Madjo, George Hemmings, and Brazilian Alysson all looked at home against PSG, which caught Hutton's attention. The former Scotland international, speaking to TNT Sports, praised the trust Emery has shown in the academy products.
"You want to see youth coming through and playing at a high level. And the manager's given these players exposure in big moments like tonight, for example, which tells me he trusts them," Hutton said. "That's the big thing. I wouldn't be surprised if we've seen them through the Premier League. They'll add to the squad, I'm pretty sure. They'll be active in the transfer market."
Hutton highlighted Hemmings' quality and fearlessness, saying: "I thought Hemmings was real quality. He's not scared to play, which I really like, playing with freedom, so hopefully we can see more of him throughout the season."
Emery's Rest Call Backed
Emery opted to leave Ollie Watkins, Emi Martinez, and Ezri Konsa at home due to their World Cup exertions. Hutton dismissed any potential criticism, pointing to the performance of the players who did feature.
"No, I don't think so. After the first goal, I was worried for Villa, but after that, I thought they were excellent," Hutton said. "Their big players turned up, John McGinn, Emi Buendia. I thought George Hemmings was brilliant for a young boy. Brian Madjo was excellent. They can be really happy with their work. Hopefully, that's a view into the future, so I think Unai Emery's made the right call by leaving them at home and letting them rest. To bring them three into the fold when they're ready only enhances this group."
Recruitment and Future Prospects
Hutton also praised Villa's recruitment strategy, suggesting the club may not need to spend huge sums given the emerging talent. "The manager will know, but he'll have to be clever. Whether they've got the finances to go out and splash big sums of money, I'm not so sure, but he's done really well in the past. I think recruitment's been good. I think they play with freedom," he added.
The defeat leaves Villa to reflect on a promising display, with the young players' performances offering encouragement for the season ahead. Hutton's comments underline a belief that the academy graduates could become regulars in the Premier League squad.
