Unai Emery, Aston Villa's manager, addressed the media ahead of the Premier League showdown with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday (17:30 GMT). Here's a recap of his key statements:
Player Availability: Emery confirmed that the squad is largely unchanged from the one that secured a victory over Manchester United last weekend, with the notable absence of Ivory Coast striker Evann Guessand, who has departed for the Africa Cup of Nations. He stated, 'Our injured players remain injured, but the rest are ready to step up and play.'
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Managing the Busy Schedule: With a packed fixture list during the festive period, Emery emphasized the importance of rest, recovery, and nutrition for the players. He mentioned, 'We aim to rotate the squad to minimize injury risks and ensure fresh legs. Our supporters' energy is contagious, and it fuels our desire to perform at our peak.'
Respect for Chelsea: Emery acknowledged Chelsea's strength and their position as contenders for the top-four spots and even the title. He remarked, 'We respect the Premier League's competitiveness. Chelsea has a strong squad, an excellent coach, and a confident playing style. They are a formidable opponent, even though they are currently ranked below us.'
Looking Ahead: Emery reflected on the team's progress in 2025 while expressing his desire for continuous improvement. He stated, 'My goal is to enhance our performance collectively and individually. We aim to build a strong bond with our supporters and create memorable moments that will bring us closer to them.'
Don't miss the live commentary of the Chelsea vs. Aston Villa match on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds, starting at 17:30 GMT on Saturday. Tune in to catch all the action!
