Former Villa Star Calls for European Focus Amid Title Race Setback
Unai Emery has been urged to adopt a strategy similar to Ange Postecoglou's successful approach at Tottenham Hotspur, with former Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie suggesting the club should prioritise the Europa League over the Premier League title race. Hendrie's comments come as Villa face challenges in maintaining their domestic ambitions, following a restrained transfer window that has limited Emery's options.
Villa's Transfer Constraints and Domestic Struggles
In an exclusive interview on the Footy Accumulators No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, in partnership with BOYLE Sports, Hendrie expressed his view that Aston Villa are "streets behind" favourites Arsenal in the title race. He pointed to recent home games against Everton and Brentford as missed opportunities, indicating that Villa's hopes for a first English title since 1981 have dwindled. Hendrie emphasised that the squad's depth compares unfavourably to top rivals like Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United, citing financial fair play restrictions as a key factor in Emery's frustration during the January transfer window.
Emulating Postecoglou's European Success
Hendrie highlighted how Ange Postecoglou guided Tottenham to European glory last season, winning their first trophy in 17 years by defeating Manchester United in the final, despite a low league finish. He believes Emery, a serial winner in European competitions, should channel resources towards ending Villa's 30-year wait for a major honour. "The Europa League is there for us," Hendrie stated, noting Villa's experience in European stages under Emery, including runs in the Europa Conference League and Champions League, as a solid platform for trophy success.
Strategic Sacrifices for Long-Term Gains
According to Hendrie, Villa must make logical sacrifices to secure a top-four or five finish in the Premier League while aggressively pursuing European silverware. He argued that focusing on the Europa League offers a realistic opportunity for glory, which could also help ensure Champions League qualification. Hendrie praised Emery as one of the best managers globally and expressed confidence in Villa's ability to achieve under his leadership, but stressed the need for a clear strategic shift given current squad limitations.
This advice sparks debate among fans and analysts on whether Villa should recalibrate their season goals, balancing domestic consistency with European ambition in a challenging football landscape.
