In his pre-match press conference, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery provided an update on his squad’s fitness ahead of their UEFA Europa League clash against Go Ahead Eagles at De Adelaarshorst.
Emery revealed that key players Youri Tielemans, Andrés García, Lucas Digne, and Ross Barkley will miss the match due to injuries.
Notably, Barkley’s absence is also due to his exclusion from Villa’s squad list for the competition, a strategic decision that limits his participation in the tournament.
This injury list poses a challenge for Villa, as Tielemans and Digne are integral to the team’s midfield and defensive structure, respectively.
Emery emphasized the importance of maintaining Aston Villa’s strong start in the Europa League, where they have secured victories in their opening two matches. These wins have bolstered the team’s confidence, and Emery is keen to build on this momentum. However, he clarified that the objective for the upcoming match is not solely about gaining confidence but about competing fiercely to secure three crucial points. With Villa aiming to finish in the top eight of the competition’s league phase to advance directly to the round of 16, every match carries significant weight.
The absence of Lucas Digne, a seasoned left-back known for his attacking contributions and defensive solidity, could impact Villa’s balance on the flanks.
Emery will likely rely on alternative options, such as Ian Maatsen or another adjusted lineup, to compensate. Despite these setbacks, Emery’s focus remains on delivering a competitive performance against Go Ahead Eagles, a side that may pose a challenge in their home stadium. Villa’s depth and Emery’s tactical acumen will be tested, but the manager’s ambition to sustain their winning streak underscores his commitment to success in the Europa League.
