Every word Unai Emery said on injuries, emotions, Asensio’s role, and Club Brugge Aston Villa manager Unai Emery addressed the media ahead of the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 clash against Club Brugge.
Speaking at the Jan Breydel Stadium on Monday evening, Emery discussed his team’s preparations for the crucial match. Villa will aim to avoid defeat or, ideally, secure an advantage heading into next week’s return leg at Villa Park. Here is everything Emery shared during the press conference…
“Onana and Barkley are unavailable. Andres Garcia and Donyell Malen are not on the list. The rest of the squad is ready.
“Regarding players returning from injury – Pau Torres is in the squad, as is Tyrone Mings, who wasn’t involved on Friday. Matty Cash and Boubacar Kamara are also available. Kamara was on the bench last time, but tomorrow he might get some minutes.”
What did you learn from the last game against Brugge?
“We always analyze and take lessons from each match to address the challenges we face. Brugge showed why they are at this stage. They played well when they beat us and deserved the win.
“Despite that loss, we have progressed well in the Champions League. We made it to the top eight, surpassing Atalanta, who played strongly but couldn’t advance. Brugge also performed exceptionally against Atalanta and earned their place here.
“This match is crucial for us. We recognize Brugge’s strengths, their European experience, and their confidence. Facing a competitive side like them is a good challenge, and we are excited to take it on.”
Do you think about winning the Champions League?
“I’m not focused on that. I approach each match individually. Winning is a consequence of the process, not the end goal.
“I believe in building step by step. If you think too far ahead, you might lose your way. The key is to follow the process and let the results come naturally.”
How do you see the team evolving?
“It’s always a challenge to improve. We continuously work on strengthening the squad by adding players with different qualities.
“We have brought in players with experience at this level, and they are adapting well. Football is about collective strength. Success won’t come from individual brilliance alone but from how well we build our structure.
“This is a challenge for both the team and each player individually. Our goal is to progress together over the next three months and help players achieve their personal objectives.”
Can you be a contender this season?
“Now is not the time to think about that. Right now, we must focus on this match and our performance in upcoming games.
“Our immediate target is to win, remain defensively solid, execute our game plan, and counter their tactical approach. We understand Brugge better now and can see why they have succeeded in the Champions League.
“Defeating them over two legs will be difficult. We must stay focused, both individually and collectively, and execute our plan effectively.”
Why does European football suit your coaching style?
“My past experiences matter, but the most important thing now is Aston Villa. It’s a new journey. Previous knowledge helps, but what truly counts is how we compete now.
“We are working to build a strong structure that allows us to compete against any European team. Experience helps with finding balance, managing emotions, and staying composed under pressure. Tomorrow’s match is a key moment, and we must show maturity and resilience.”
What will you do differently this time?
“We now have more information about Brugge and ourselves. We played them in November; now it’s March. We have evolved, and hopefully, we are stronger.
“Competition is crucial in every match. When we played here, we didn’t perform to our usual standards. We’ve analyzed that and aim to be better this time.
“It’s about knowing them better, competing harder, executing our tactical plan, and managing emotions effectively.”
How important is Asensio’s experience?
“It’s a challenge for both us and him. Tomorrow will show how well our new players integrate into our system.
“We must be defensively solid and try to control the game when we have possession. Asensio, Rashford, and others will play key roles.
“Our away form needs improvement. In our last 12 away matches, we lost nine and won three. However, we are strong at home, with only two defeats in 23 games—one against Arsenal in the Premier League and one against Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup.
“In the Champions League, we won at Young Boys, lost at Brugge, won at Leipzig, and lost at Monaco. That balance was enough to reach the top eight, but we must be stronger away from home. Tomorrow, we need to compete better, show consistency, and improve on our last performances in Brugge and Monaco. Hopefully, we can play to our full potential.”
