While some Premier League managers actively court the cameras, Aston Villa's Unai Emery operates differently. The Spanish coach has become notable for his post-match routine: a brisk handshake with his counterpart before swiftly heading down the tunnel, leaving the Villa Park pitch to his players.
The Manager Who Shuns the Spotlight
This approach stands in stark contrast to peers like Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp, whose animated post-match presence has sometimes dominated the narrative. Guardiola recently expressed embarrassment after confronting a cameraman on the pitch at St James' Park, while Klopp became famous for his chest-beating celebrations.
Emery's preference for avoiding the acclaim reflects his focused management style. Rather than basking in personal attention, he directs the spotlight toward his squad's achievements—a philosophy that appears to be paying dividends for the Birmingham club.
Villa's Rising Credentials
Aston Villa's current campaign follows their impressive fourth-place finish in the 2023/24 Premier League and a Champions League run stopped only by eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain. Despite these accomplishments, they've often been overlooked in discussions about genuine title contenders.
That perception may be changing. After a difficult start to the 2025/26 season, Villa have found their rhythm with six wins, two draws, and just one defeat since the summer transfer window closed. Their attacking output has significantly improved, netting ten goals across their last four matches in all competitions.
Key Players Finding Form
The resurgence has been fueled by several key performers. Donyell Malen has emerged as a potent attacking threat, looking more comfortable in a central role than out wide. Meanwhile, Morgan Rogers has established himself as one of the division's most dangerous midfield presences.
Though Ollie Watkins has yet to rediscover his peak decisiveness, his quality remains unquestioned. The summer speculation surrounding Watkins, Rogers, and goalkeeper Emi Martinez created an air of uncertainty around the club during August, potentially contributing to their slow start with two losses and a draw in their opening three league matches.
A Season of Opportunity
With traditional powerhouses Liverpool and Manchester City showing vulnerabilities, this season presents a significant opportunity for Villa to establish themselves among the elite. Qualifying for the Champions League through domestic performance is now the expectation rather than the aspiration.
Emery has assembled a well-balanced squad featuring players in their prime alongside developing talents like Evann Guessand and Ian Maatsen. This blend of experience and potential, guided by Emery's steady leadership, positions Villa for sustained success.
The visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers to Villa Park offers another chance to extend their positive run. While Emery may prefer to avoid personal acclaim, his players' performances could soon make that impossible as Aston Villa firmly establish themselves as serious Premier League contenders.
