Villa boss Emery says Old Trafford trip is huge test
Unai Emery says Villa have not won at Old Trafford during his four years in charge, ahead of Sunday's trip to Manchester United.
· Kickhell
Aston Villa head to Old Trafford on Sunday looking to bounce back from a midweek Champions League defeat at Barcelona, and manager Unai Emery has called the trip a huge challenge. Speaking to local and national media at the club's Bodymoor Heath training base on Friday, Emery focused on the task ahead.
Emery pointed to Villa's record at the ground. “We didn't win one match there. Four years I am here, travelling to Manchester to play against them, we have lost.” He added: “So, it's always very, very difficult there.”
Villa are 10th in the Premier League with 12 points from nine matches, while United sit 17th with seven points. Emery described United as “a fantastic club” and said they should recover their consistency in the league, “hopefully not on Sunday against us.”
Emery was positive about the club's progress but acknowledged setbacks. “Sometimes, the progress is being forward, clear. Sometimes, we are doing one step back in some situations – for example, last week, against Fulham at home when we drew.”
On the Champions League, Villa lost 3-0 in Barcelona after a strong start. Emery said the team “performed more or less in good ways like we planned, but it was not enough” against the level it faced.
Emery also outlined his longer-term vision, including plans for a new stand at Villa Park. “Adding more supporters in Villa Park is one step forward, clearly, to get better,” he said. Villa return to action on Sunday before the November international break.
