Emery Claims Increasing Ambitions Are Fueling Aston Villas Fiery Form

Unai Emery stated on Friday that heightened ambitions are powering Aston Villas push in the Premier League as his team in top shape aims for an uncommon win against Manchester United on Sunday.

A 3-1 triumph over the Red Devils in Emerys debut game in charge, back in November 2022, stands as Villas sole home league success against United since 1995.

The Spaniard has completely changed the trajectory of the former European champions during his three years in Birmingham.

Villa sit third in the Premier League, only three points adrift of table toppers Arsenal following an impressive streak of 10 victories in 11 Premier League matches.

This marks a remarkable recovery for the club, which drew blanks in their first five league fixtures, managing just one goal along the way.

"Stay grounded, and keep working as we have over the past years, particularly in the recent two months," Emery remarked during his pre match press briefing.

"I believe the players, following our shaky beginning, have joined me in embracing the standards I set and we strive to instil in the team each day. 

"The way we intend to operate, the level of self expectation we hold, and how we achieve steady results."

Emery noted that his players are advancing from last season, where they ended sixth in the Premier League and advanced to the Champions League quarter finals.

Villas scorching streak has ignited hopes that they might challenge for their first league crown since 1981.

"Our performances last year serve as a model and a lesson for us," the Spaniard added. "At times we excelled and met our goals.

"Yet if we had raised our expectations further, we might have achieved even greater things. 

"That is why now, in my third year here, I feel highly driven but even more insistent than upon my arrival."

Emery is determined to better Villas dismal home record versus United.

"Among my goals are numerous areas for enhancement, plenty to refine, many objectives to establish with bold intent, and the immediate one is on Sunday, defeating Manchester United.

"Over 30 or 31 years, Aston Villa have only beaten Manchester United at home on three occasions. That statistic seems utterly astonishing for Aston Villa."