In Video: PSG vs Aston Villa: Can Unai Emery prevent Les Parisiens from achieving an 'invincible season'?

Aston Villa’s Historic Champions League Quarterfinal: A Dream Come True for Unai Emery

For the first time since 1983, Aston Villa is set to play a European Cup or Champions League quarterfinal match. TheLiver Birds will face Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the first leg away from home, with Unai Emery, their manager, eager to take on his former club. Emery is no stranger to Continental competition, having won four Europa Leagues and led Aston Villa to the Champions League semi-finals in 2022.

Aston Villa’s Historic Campaign

The Villans’ Champions League run has been nothing short of remarkable. They have beaten Bayern Munich, Bologna, and Celtic to reach this stage, with an impressive win against Club Brugge in the playoff round. Their domestic league form has also been impressive, with a six-game winning streak in all competitions.

Unai Emery’s Plan

Despite PSG’s overwhelming talent and recent reputation, Emery has a plan to upset the odds. He will likely rely on his team’s momentum, which has seen them win their last seven games in all competitions. The manager will also look to his key players, including Marco Asencio, who has scored eight goals in 11 games for Aston Villa since joining, and Morgan Rogers, who has already scored 10 goals and assists in all competitions this season.

PSG’s Strengths

The French giants are in exceptional form, having won 21 of their last 23 games in all competitions. Their attacking flair was on full display in their win against Liverpool in the Champions League, and Dembele, who has scored 24 goals in 20 games this season, is a key figure in their front line.

Playmakers on Both Sides

Tielemans and Vetina are two playmakers who will play a crucial role in controlling the tempo of the game. Tielemans has made the most passes under pressure in the Premier League, while Vetina has been the conductor of PSG’s midfield, controlling the tempo of the game with his exceptional passing range.

A Satisfactory Outcome

Aston Villa will likely take a narrow defeat as a satisfactory outcome from the first leg. With PSG’s recent form and talent, it will be a tough ask for the Villans to get a positive result, but their manager, Unai Emery, is confident that his team can cause an upset.

Conclusion

The Champions League quarterfinal between Aston Villa and PSG is a historic occasion for the Villans, who will be eager to make the most of it. Unai Emery’s plan to upset the odds will rely on his team’s momentum, key players, and a disciplined defensive performance. While PSG are the overwhelming favorites, Aston Villa will be looking to cause an upset and make their first Champions League semi-final appearance since 1983.