Ollie Watkins has credited manager Unai Emery for guiding Aston Villa into another Europa League final after a commanding victory over Nottingham Forest. The Spanish coach is now just one win away from securing a fifth Europa League title, as Villa prepare to face Bundesliga side Freiburg in the final.
Match Recap
Villa entered the second leg trailing 1-0 after Chris Wood's penalty in the first leg. However, a first-half goal from Watkins, a penalty from Emiliano Buendia, and a quickfire double from John McGinn turned the tie around, securing a 4-1 aggregate win.
Watkins on Emery
Speaking to TNT Sports, Watkins said: "There is no better manager to get us prepared for this game and obviously take us into the final as well. His track record speaks for itself. We are in a great position, but we need to go there and win now."
The England forward also praised the collective effort of the team, especially after a disappointing Premier League performance against Tottenham. "After the performance against Tottenham, everyone's mind was on this game. Everyone worked so hard. It is hard to pick a man of the match – we were all amazing," he added.
McGinn's Leadership
Villa captain John McGinn urged his teammates to seize the opportunity. "I am normally quite calm before the game, but the pressure today was intense. I was nervous going into the game and tonight was one of the best performances from Villa I've seen in a long time," the Scotland midfielder said.
McGinn added: "What I said to the lads was they might not get another chance to play in a European semi-final as they don't come along too often. When you get to 31, it might be the last chance to get to a European final."
Villa now face Freiburg in the final, aiming for their first major trophy in 30 years.
