Aston Villa's Victor Lindelof has proven to be a shrewd acquisition this season, but the Swedish defender may feel 'hard done by' as manager Unai Emery faces a selection headache for the Europa League final. Lindelof, who joined Villa on a free transfer from Manchester United on deadline day, has been a reliable rock in defense, yet his starting spot is not guaranteed.
Lindelof's Impact Against Nottingham Forest
Few Aston Villa fans expected Victor Lindelof to start against Nottingham Forest on Thursday night. With Amadou Onana ruled out due to injury, Emery opted for Lindelof over alternatives like Douglas Luiz, Lamare Bogarde, or John McGinn in the double pivot. The decision paid off handsomely. Lindelof operated in a role similar to Boubacar Kamara, forming a back three in build-up alongside Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres while dropping into midfield out of possession.
Emery's trust in Lindelof's versatility, quality, and experience was a masterstroke. At Manchester United, Lindelof won the FA Cup and League Cup, and he has experience in European finals, having been a runner-up in the Europa League in 2020/21 and last season, as well as playing in a semi-final in 2019/20.
Emery's Transfer Window Reflection
Emery admitted that Villa made mistakes in the summer transfer window, with moves for Harvey Elliott and Evann Guessand not working out, while Jadon Sancho has struggled for form. However, Lindelof stands out as an astute signing. The same can be said for Marco Bizot, but it remains remarkable that a versatile, experienced international released by Manchester United only found a new club on a free transfer on deadline day.
Europa League Final Decision
Lindelof will be hoping to start against Freiburg in Istanbul, but Onana may regain his place. His performance against Forest certainly hasn't harmed his chances. Villa captain John McGinn praised Lindelof after the match, saying on TNT: 'Victor has been outstanding. He's been a little bit hard done by since he signed – I don't think he's done a foot wrong. The way he fitted in there tonight was outstanding.'
Emery now has a welcome dilemma as he prepares for the final, with Lindelof proving he can be relied upon in crucial moments.
