Yahoo News Aston Villa using Manchester United model for Unai Emery
Unai Emery has reportedly extended his contract with Aston Villa, which comes as a huge boost for the football club.
The Spaniard has had a transformational impact at Villa since his appointment in November 2022. He was afforded the power to make key footballing decisions and appoint the right personnel to make a success of his second stint as a Premier League manager.
He struggled at Arsenal for many of the reasons why he is now succeeding at Villa. Owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens have now managed to secure his future at the club by extending his deal, according to The Athletic.
READ | Aston Villa reaping rewards of Monchi's latest transfer masterstroke
READ | The sum that shows new Premier League financial rules won't make it easier for Aston Villa
The report adds that Villa intend to sit down with Emery this summer and prolong his terms even further, with the club's ambitious owners certain he can become their version of legendary Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
He was in office at Old Trafford for 27 years, which might not be the same amount of time Emery remains at Villa for, but his influence at the club mirrors that of Ferguson's at United. Emery has led Villa into a new era and is building a dynasty at Villa Park.
The 52-year-old brought European football back to B6 this season after a seventh-placed finish last term and his side reached the semi-finals last week by overcoming Lille on a penalty shoot-out.
As Villa go in search of their first trophy since 1996, Emery's side are also targeting a top four finish to qualify for Champions League football.
Villa moved six points clear of Tottenham on Sunday night after beating Bournemouth 3-1 at Villa Park. It followed a win over Arsenal the previous weekend and Spurs could find themselves nine points behind Villa when they play their north London derby on Sunday. Chelsea head to Villa Park on Saturday for an 8pm kick-off.
