Future of Unai Emery favourite under threat after Aston Villa man’s surprise decision

Unai Emery will be preparing his Aston Villa side for what could be a vintage campaign in 2024/25.

The Villains will take part in the Champions League for the first time since they were involved in the competition in 1982, when it was known as the European Cup.

Peter Withe provided the club with arguably its greatest ever moment by scoring the winner in the final against Bundesliga giants, Bayern Munich.

Unai Emery favourite could find his time limited in 2024/25

Emery would need to work all of his magic for the Midlands-based outfit to come anywhere close to getting to the final again this time around, though with him being an expert in European cup football, one can’t bet against the Villains surprising a few people.

Domestically, Emery’s side were brilliant to watch last season, and the Spaniard will surely be hoping for the same hard work and application despite the extra load his players will have to cope with.

One player that could find his place under threat is Emery favourite, Alex Moreno.

Transfermarkt note that the left-back played in 29 games in all competitions for Aston Villa in 2023/24, and with Lucas Digne thought to be on the move to Galatasaray, it would’ve given the 31-year-old the chance to be in direct competition with Ian Maatsen for the slot on the left side of defence.

However, as The Athletic (subscription required), Digne has turned down the move to the Turkish giants, and whilst the outlet note that there is still interest in the Frenchman’s services, he’s now expected to stay at Villa Park.

With three weeks left of the transfer window, Digne’s decision may prompt Moreno to consider his options as, injuries notwithstanding, he’s unlikely to get too much of a look in.