Aston Villa has made Premier League history by becoming the first team in 21 years to defeat the league’s previous season’s top two teams in back-to-back matches.
Aston Villa’s head coach, Unai Emery, and their captain, John McGinn, are hesitant to declare themselves as championship contenders, even after their impressive streak was extended by a win against Arsenal, bringing them within two points of league leaders Liverpool.
By triumphing over Arsenal, who were in second place, on Saturday, and defeating Manchester City, who won the Treble, just three days prior, Villa solidified their position at third in the Premier League standings. These victories mark the first time they’ve beaten the top two teams from the previous season and represent their strongest start to a top-flight season since 1980-81, the last time they clinched the title.
However, Emery has put off any championship discussions until later in the season.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the victory over his past team, Arsenal, Emery said, “Let’s talk about it when we reach games 30 to 32. If we’re still in the same spot, then maybe I’ll discuss it. For now, it’s just game 16. We’re in the top four, and our goal is to maintain that.”
Villa grabbed an early lead through captain John McGinn and managed to hold on despite some nerve-wracking moments involving the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), achieving a record-breaking 15th consecutive home league win at a buzzing Villa Park.
Refusing to get ahead of themselves, McGinn said, “The ‘T-word’ is off-limits for now. We’re only in week 16, so there’s a lot of season left. We respect our peers who have been contenders for years. We’re the new kids on the block – let’s see how it goes.”
Villa’s recent progress is remarkable, considering that just thirteen months ago, they were teetering on the edge of the relegation zone under former manager Steven Gerrard. Emery’s arrival has brought a significant turnaround, with 26 wins in his 41 Premier League games, surpassing his record with Arsenal between 2018 and 2019.
In 2023, Villa’s 24 Premier League wins are second only to Manchester City’s 26 and tie the club’s all-time record for wins in a calendar year, a feat last achieved in 1931.
Jamie Redknapp, a former England midfielder, commented on Sky Sports, “This is an exhilarating time for Aston Villa supporters. They’ve endured some rough patches, and seeing the club thrive now is fantastic.”
Asked about Villa’s championship prospects, former Birmingham City and Arsenal player Karen Carney remarked, “Given their current form and recent wins against Man City and Arsenal, the fans are right to feel something special is brewing.”
Phil Neville, a six-time Premier League winner, however, remains skeptical about Villa’s chances for the title. “I don’t see them as title contenders,” he stated on NBC Sports, “but they’ve definitely been the most consistent and impressive team in these first 16 games.”
So, do you believe Aston Villa is a true contender for the title?
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Aston Villa Premier League
Are Aston Villa considered title contenders in the Premier League?
Despite their impressive performance, including recent victories over Arsenal and Manchester City, Aston Villa’s manager Unai Emery and captain John McGinn believe it’s too early to consider them as title contenders. They emphasize that it’s only game week 16 and a lot can change as the season progresses.
What makes Aston Villa’s recent wins significant?
Aston Villa’s back-to-back wins against last season’s top two Premier League teams, Arsenal and Manchester City, are historically significant. These wins mark their best start to a top-flight season since 1980-81 and a record-breaking 15th straight home league win.
How has Unai Emery’s management impacted Aston Villa?
Under Unai Emery’s management, Aston Villa has seen a remarkable turnaround, winning 26 of his 41 Premier League games since taking over. This is a better record than his tenure with Arsenal and has contributed significantly to Villa’s current success.
What are the historical comparisons for Aston Villa’s current performance?
Aston Villa’s 24 Premier League victories in 2023 are only surpassed by Manchester City and equal the club’s record for most wins in a calendar year, last achieved in 1931. This comparison underlines the club’s significant improvement and current strength.
Is there skepticism regarding Aston Villa’s title chances?
Yes, some experts remain skeptical. Phil Neville, a six-time Premier League winner, expressed doubts about Aston Villa’s title chances, though he acknowledged their consistency and impressive performance in the first 16 games of the season.
More about Aston Villa Premier League
- Aston Villa Official Website
- Premier League Standings
- Unai Emery’s Managerial Record
- Historical Premier League Results
- Aston Villa Match Highlights and Analysis
- Sky Sports Football Coverage
- NBC Sports Premier League Insights
- Premier League Calendar Year Records
5 comments
wow Aston Villa really stepping up this year, Emery’s done wonders with the team. reckon they might just be the dark horse in the title race?
its amazing to see how far we’ve come in just over a year. from relegation fears to title talks, what a journey! UTV!
As an Arsenal fan, gotta admit, Villa’s game was impressive. They’ve come a long way. Still early days, but they’re definitely one to watch.
skeptical about Villa’s chances for the title. Yes, they’ve had a great start, but it’s a long season and the big teams always find their form.
the stats don’t lie, Villa’s record this year is impressive but let’s not get carried away. It’s only been 16 games, long way to go in the season.