Former England international Chris Waddle has delivered a thrilling verdict on Aston Villa's Premier League title credentials, suggesting only a mounting fixture list and potential injuries can derail their remarkable charge.
Incredible Villa Form Sparks Title Talk
Under the meticulous guidance of manager Unai Emery, Aston Villa have won 15 of their last 17 matches, a stunning run of form that includes seven consecutive victories. Six of those wins came in the Premier League, setting a new club record. This blistering three-month period has completely transformed their season, erasing a poor start and propelling them to within touching distance of the summit.
The significance of their surge was underlined two weeks ago with a dramatic late victory over then-leaders Arsenal, slashing the gap to just three points. This result has firmly inserted Emery's side into the conversation for the biggest prize in English football.
Waddle's Praise for Emery and Warning Over Fatigue
Speaking to BestBettingSites, Waddle was effusive in his praise for the Villa boss, placing him in the elite company of Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp. He highlighted Emery's proven track record at Villarreal and Arsenal, and the intense, tactical work ethic that has revitalised Villa Park.
"What he’s done with Villa has been brilliant, and there’s no reason why they can’t challenge in the league," Waddle stated. However, he pinpointed a critical factor that could hinder their challenge: the physical toll of competing on multiple fronts.
"They’re playing in Europe as well, and that will take its toll over the season, especially with squad numbers," he cautioned. "The only thing that will stop them is injuries or fatigue. All these games add up."
The Defining Period Ahead for Villa's Squad
Waddle believes the title race remains wide open, with Arsenal and a resurgent Manchester City also in the mix. He acknowledges Villa's current confidence, with players like Morgan Rogers in fine form, but stresses that the coming weeks will be decisive.
"They’re going to have a blip at some point - you can’t keep winning forever - and it’s about how they come through that busy period," he explained. "The next four or five weeks are going to be a big test for a lot of clubs."
If Villa can navigate the hectic festive schedule and emerge in January still in contention, Waddle sees no reason why they cannot "kick on" and sustain a genuine title challenge, labelling Emery a "terrific" and "absolutely fantastic" manager.
