Unai Emery could consider dropping Ollie Watkins and introducing a new attacking dynamic by deploying Aston Villa’s fresh version of Donyell Malen.
Aston Villa have the opportunity to round off what has already been a significant week. Emery’s team progressed comfortably to the Europa League quarter-finals after defeating Lille 3–0 on aggregate, including a 2–0 victory at Villa Park. Attention now turns to Sunday, when the Midlands side host West Ham United, aiming to keep pressure on third-placed Manchester United.
United dropped points away to Bournemouth on Friday, meaning a win for Villa would reduce the gap to just one point and strengthen their push for a top-four finish.
Following the midweek success, Emery faces a familiar dilemma: rotate his squad or stick with a largely strong lineup. Managing the quick turnaround between Thursday and Sunday fixtures often requires careful balance.
There is some positive news on the injury front. Midfielder Youri Tielemans, who missed the Lille clash, returned to training on Friday after two months out. Emery said he was unsure whether the Belgian would be in Sunday’s squad but confirmed he is “feeling good.” Matty Cash featured midweek after his own absence, while Boubacar Kamara remains sidelined for the longer term.
Up front, Emery has a decision to make. Ollie Watkins has endured a quieter campaign, scoring nine goals after two strong seasons, and his dip in form saw him miss out on Thomas Tuchel’s extended England squad. The departure of Donyell Malen to Roma during the winter window also reduced Villa’s attacking options.
That situation could prompt Emery to try something different by using versatile attacker Jadon Sancho through the middle. The 25-year-old has mostly played on either wing this season, recording one goal and two assists, but he has occasionally operated as a central striker with some success. Across five appearances in that role during his career, he has contributed goals and assists, suggesting he could adapt if needed.
Sancho’s recent performances out wide have been encouraging. He provided an important assist against Lille, controlling a long pass from Emi Martinez before cutting inside and setting up John McGinn. His overall display included two chances created, one big chance, several progressive carries, and multiple ball recoveries.
If moved centrally, Sancho would likely adopt a different style from Watkins. Rather than constantly running in behind, he could drop deeper, link play, and pull defenders out of position, creating space for teammates — a role similar to the flexibility Malen previously offered.
Such a tactical switch would represent a bold move from Emery, but it could give Villa a fresh attacking dimension. Sancho has been described as “magic” by Benni McCarthy, and if used as a number nine, he may provide the spark Villa need.
