Aston Villa Player Ratings: Standout 8s and Struggling 5s in Season Review
Aston Villa face a thrilling final two months of the season, with ambitions for Champions League qualification and potential silverware firmly in sight. Under Unai Emery, the team overcame a rocky start, failing to win any of their first six matches across all competitions, only to rebound spectacularly with 19 victories in the next 21 games.
Despite some inconsistent form entering the New Year, recent successes against Lille in the Europa League and West Ham have reignited optimism among supporters. As the run-in approaches, here is a detailed assessment of each player's contributions so far.
Goalkeepers and Defenders
Emi Martinez has been a key figure, despite speculation about his future earlier in the season. After missing several games initially, he has started the last 15 league matches, securing 11 clean sheets, including standout performances against Bournemouth, Brighton, and Newcastle. Rating: 7
Marco Bizot, signed from Stade Reims, has proven to be a reliable backup with 12 appearances and five clean sheets, ensuring Villa are no longer in crisis when Martinez is absent. Rating: 7
Matty Cash is enjoying arguably his best season, consistently excelling as a right-back and becoming a strong contender for player of the year after bouncing back from last season's mistakes. Rating: 8
Andres Garcia has struggled with injuries, making only six appearances for around 70 minutes, and faces tough competition from Cash. Rating: 4
Ezri Konsa remains a top performer with over 277 appearances for Villa, delivering a solid campaign despite recent dips in form. Rating: 7
Victor Lindelof, a free transfer, has been a surprise success, establishing himself as a reliable centre-back and rarely putting a foot wrong. Rating: 8
Pau Torres has missed games due to a calf injury but has still featured 27 times, contributing more good performances than poor ones. Rating: 6
Tyrone Mings has been hampered by a hamstring issue, starting only 11 league matches with Villa winning two, showing limited impact. Rating: 6
Ian Maatsen has shown attacking dynamism as left-back but lacks consistency, starting 12 of the last 18 league games. Rating: 6
Lucas Digne provides dangerous deliveries and experience at 32, with his leadership potentially crucial for silverware pursuits. Rating: 6
Midfielders
Boubacar Kamara was in outstanding form before a season-ending knee injury in January, a major blow for Villa. Rating: 7
Lamare Bogarde has progressed but not secured a regular starting spot, featuring 36 times with only eight Premier League starts. Rating: 7
Amadou Onana has impressed in his second season with 31 appearances, though consistency remains an area for improvement. Rating: 7
Youri Tielemans, last season's player of the year, was missed during a two-month injury lay-off, and his creativity will be vital in the run-in. Rating: 7
Douglas Luiz has been steady but not at his best, though he has stayed fit throughout the season. Rating: 6
Ross Barkley has impressed recently with standout performances at Old Trafford and against West Ham, helping regain control in key moments. Rating: 6
John McGinn has underlined his importance as captain, leading by example and scoring crucial goals against Lille and West Ham. Rating: 8
Harvey Elliott has had a disappointing campaign with limited opportunities, making only five league appearances. Rating: 4
Forwards
Emi Buendia made a strong early impact but has seen his output dip, with just two goals in 23 matches overall. Rating: 7
Jadon Sancho showed promise from December onwards but has only one goal and a few assists in 31 games, needing improvement. Rating: 6
Leon Bailey has contributed a goal and assist but must improve his performance level to secure his future at the club. Rating: 5
Morgan Rogers has had another strong season with crucial contributions, including doubles against West Ham, Leeds, and Manchester United, and could be decisive in the run-in. Rating: 8
Alysson, a January signing from Gremio, is still adapting with three league appearances so far. Rating: N/A
Ollie Watkins has not matched previous seasons' heights, with only 10 goals and two assists in 43 appearances, though his goal against West Ham was a positive response. Rating: 5
Tammy Abraham rejoined in January and made an immediate impact with goals against Leeds and Newcastle, but has seen limited minutes as he adapts. Rating: 6
