Paul Lambert has had his say on the appointment of Unai Emery and what he thinks it will take for him to succeed at Villa Park.
Aston Villa didn’t waste too much time in approaching Emery, following the recent departure of Steven Gerrard. Emery is walking into a side that currently sit 15th in the Premier League and are just three points above the relegation zone.
The Spanish manager joins with an excellent reputation, having won four Europa League titles.
Lambert has shared his thoughts on the appointment and claimed what he will need in order to be a success.
The former Aston Villa manager explained (via Sky Sports): “He’s a brilliant manager no matter what you say, he had a sticky time at Arsenal. What he’s done in Europe has been phenomenal.
“There’s a big expectancy level at Villa. If you don’t win games, you know exactly what is going to happen.
“He’s not a novice, he knows the game. The lure of Aston Villa and the size of the club would have made it an easy decision for him. He will have to get the lads on side, the board will have to help him – and give him finances.”
Aston Villa have certainly not been shy of splashing the cash over recent transfer windows.
During the summer they spend over £60million on the likes of Diego Carlos, Philippe Coutinho and Leander Dendoncker.
Upon appointing Emery, Aston Villa released the following statement: “Aston Villa is delighted to announce the appointment of Unai Emery as the club’s new head coach.
“Unai joins from Villarreal, whom he led to Europa League success by beating Manchester United in the final in 2021, as well as the semi-finals of the Champions League last season.
“A highly-experienced top level coach who has managed over 900 games, Unai has also previously managed in the Premier League during a spell with Arsenal, leading the Gunners to a Europa League final.
“He has also enjoyed notable success at Sevilla and at Paris Saint Germain.
“In Seville, he won three successive Europa League titles between 2013 and 2016 before going on to lift a Ligue 1 championship in France as well as two French Cups, two French League Cups and two Trophée des Champions.
“Unai will take over from November 1 after his work permit formalities are completed.”
Next up for Aston Villa is a trip to St. James’ Park to take on Newcastle who currently sit in the top four.
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