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September 17, 2024

Unai Emery focussed on ‘new mentality, new objective’ as Aston Villa set for UEFA Champions League debut

Unai Emery emphasizes a “new mentality” for his Aston Villa squad as they gear up for their first appearance in Europe’s top competition since 1982, when they famously lifted the European Cup 42 years ago. The Spanish manager, well-versed in continental success, is confident that his Villa side can hold their own in this year’s UEFA Champions League as the team grows stronger with each passing season.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is focused on instilling a “new mentality” in his squad as they prepare for their first appearance in the UEFA Champions League.

The club famously lifted the European Cup in 1982—before the competition was rebranded in 1992—defeating Bayern Munich in the final. Emery dreams of seeing the Claret and Blue draped in gold again as they aim for European glory.

“I had dreams when I arrived here to play in the Champions League and be competitive in this competition,” Emery told TNT Sports in an exclusive interview.

“Of course, we arrived quickly and better, of course. Even playing in the Conference League last year was quicker than maybe we expected.

“But we are going to set our new mentality, our new objective. Because we are now not comfortable playing in the Premier League and being in the middle. We want to be competitive, get in Europe, and be consistent.

“But of course, being consistent and getting into Europe is very difficult in England because it is the hardest league in the world.”

Aston Villa will mark their Champions League debut on Wednesday evening when they face Swiss side Young Boys. Catch all the action broadcast live exclusively on TNT Sports. and Discovery+.

A key talking point ahead of the clash is the artificial surface at Wankdorf Stadium, which could present a unique challenge for Aston Villa against the Swiss side.

How to watch Young Boys v Aston Villa in UEFA Champions League on TNT Sports and Discovery+ in the UK, live stream and TV.

Alexis Mac Allister, Michael Olise, Aston Villa – Which players and clubs are gearing up for their Champions League debuts?

However, the Spaniard is adamant that the club will not use this as an excuse and is prepared to adapt to any challenges.

“We have to accept and we have to adapt to the pitches we are playing. Of course, usually we are playing on normal pitches, here it is synthetic,” Emery added.

“But we are going to try to adapt quickly and know what the difference is with the pitch.”

After reaching the semi-finals of last year’s Conference League, Emery’s side faces a significant leap with their debut in the Champions League. This will be their first experience of Europe’s top competition for many in the squad.  

Emery will count on players like Pau Torres, who reached the semi-finals with Villarreal in 2022, and Ian Maatsen, who played in last year’s final with Borussia Dortmund, to provide valuable experience and guidance.

“We have players with experience; Ian Maatsen played last year and he is with us now,” he said.

“Other players played, Pau Torres played in a semi-final three years ago. And I am playing [coaching] in Europe for 16 years in a row. My experiences are very important, but the better experience we are trying to use and get is with Aston Villa, with Aston Villa players, with Aston Villa supporters.

“We are always remembering how amazing it was when they won the Champions League [European Cup] in 1982, and for us, it is very important.”

Emery also extended his condolences to the family of Gary Shaw, a heroic figure from Villa’s 1982 European Cup-winning team against Bayern Munich.

With trips to Monaco and Leipzig on the agenda and visits from European powerhouses Juventus and Bayern Munich to Birmingham, Villa is set for a challenging run of fixtures in the new format. However, supporters have reason to be cautiously optimistic. 

Emery’s reputation in European competitions, especially in knockout stages, is exceptional. The Basque manager has demonstrated remarkable consistency in the Europa and Conference League, winning four Europa League titles—more than any other manager, solidifying his status as a true specialist in European football.

“We have to try and use our experiences from last year, how difficult it was last year to get to the semi-final in the Conference League. And how difficult it is going to be here this year in the Champions League,” he said.

“But we can compete here and enjoy it and feel strong playing in Europe with sharing the difficulty we have playing in the Premier League.”

After reaching the semi-final of last year’s Conference League and falling to Olympiacos, the Spaniard is already working his European magic in Birmingham.

“For me, the difference is only how we can be focussed 100%, be fit 100%, be competitive 100% – mentally, physically and tactically on the pitch. And different cultures, different countries, different temperatures. But football and the demand of the opponent is similar.”