Aston Villa's new Brazilian winger, Alysson, is in line to make his first appearance for the club this weekend, with manager Unai Emery confirming the player is set to be in the squad for the FA Cup third-round tie against Tottenham Hotspur.
Emery's Update on New Signing's Fitness
Unai Emery provided a positive update on the £10 million winter recruit from Gremio, who has been integrating with the squad at Bodymoor Heath. The 22-year-old arrived with a minor injury concern but has now participated in training sessions.
"Today we will train this afternoon and we expect that he will be ready for tomorrow," Emery stated. "We will check him in the training session. He has had a few training sessions with us, but he had a small stop because of one small injury. He trained yesterday and he has to adapt in everything."
Integration and Potential Bench Role
The Villa boss emphasised the importance of helping Alysson settle off the pitch as quickly as possible. The club is actively working to incorporate him into the group dynamics to accelerate his adaptation.
"We want to try to introduce him as soon as possible in our meetings, in our moments gathering for dinner, lunch, breakfast, getting closer to his teammates," Emery explained. His current plan is for the player to travel with the squad to London and be available from the substitutes' bench at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. "Hopefully he can travel today to London and be on the bench in the beginning against Tottenham," he added.
Background and Cup Context
Alysson, who has completed just one full professional season, featured in 31 of Gremio's 38 league matches in the Brazilian top flight last season, contributing one goal and two assists.
The FA Cup clash presents a stern test for Villa, who drew 0-0 with Crystal Palace in their last outing. However, they have already beaten Spurs this season, securing a 2-1 comeback victory in North London during the Premier League campaign.
Historically, Tottenham have an impressive record in this round, progressing from 18 of their last 19 FA Cup third-round ties. Villa, meanwhile, have won their last two third-round matches after suffering elimination at this stage for seven consecutive seasons prior.
