Unai Emery: Master of Control at Aston Villa

Unai Emery has transformed Aston Villa, achieving the control he lacked at Arsenal. His Villa side could soon equal his former club's standing with an upcoming victory. Emery thrives as a rival, not just an underdog. Many see him succeeding at clubs just outside the elite, like Sevilla and Villarreal, but struggling with elite expectations. He rejects this perception, aspiring to manage big clubs at the very top. However, his 18-month tenure at Arsenal after Arsène Wenger is widely viewed as a dismal failure. The Arsenal experience hurt Emery, especially given his admiration for Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson. He deeply values the control they wielded at their respective clubs, a control he actively seeks. Emery is an obsessive manager, with his influence permeating all aspects of Aston Villa. From player menus at Bodymoor Heath to direct links with owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, he is involved in everything. Unlike his time at Arsenal, Emery has been able to surround himself with a hand-picked, trusted Spanish coaching staff at Villa. This level of autonomy is crucial to his working philosophy. UnaiEmery AstonVilla Arsenal PremierLeague Football