Unai Emery is keeping his feet on the ground amid Aston Villa’s impressive Premier League run but doesn’t shy away from sharing his ultimate ambition: winning the Champions League. The former Arsenal manager, now at Villa’s helm, believes that while it’s early days for Premier League title talk, dreaming big is vital.
Aston Villa is targeting a return to UEFA’s elite competition next season, either by finishing high in the league or securing Europa League success. Last season, Villa narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification on goal difference but earned a spot in the Europa League for the upcoming campaign.
Currently, after 18 games, Villa sit on 39 points—the same tally they had two seasons ago when they finished fourth. The team’s form is remarkable, having won 11 consecutive matches, equaling a club record set 111 years ago. They trail league leaders Arsenal by just three points as they prepare to face the Gunners at the Emirates.
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When asked about the possibility of winning the Premier League, Emery said, “Dreams are free. Everyone has to dream. I have my dream, and I am here getting my dream.” He elaborated that his lifelong objective as a coach remains lifting the Champions League trophy.
Reflecting on his journey, Emery highlighted his beginnings in Spain’s League One two decades ago and expressed pride in how far he has come. “I am privileged to manage at this level,” he said, acknowledging the responsibility he holds towards the club, its fans, players, and ownership.
Emery also reflected on his recent Champions League campaigns: reaching the semi-finals four years ago and the quarter-finals last year, showing he’s edging closer to realizing his biggest goal. Yet, he stressed the importance of focusing on immediate challenges: “The only dream I have now is tomorrow’s match… After tomorrow, we will see.”
Returning to face Arsenal, Emery kept his emotions in check. “After 20 years coaching in various countries, when I face former clubs, it is just another match. My focus is on giving my best for Aston Villa’s supporters, players, and owners,” he said.
He made it clear where his heart lies now: “My heart belongs to San Sebastian, Real Union, and Sociedad from the past. The clubs I coached are part of me, but now, my heart is with Aston Villa. I am dedicated to achieving the best for everyone involved.”