Aston Villa 2023/24 Premier League Season Review
Aston Villa, in their first full season under Unai Emery, saw an incredible evolution continued by securing a return to the Champions League after over 40 years. At the same time, the Spanish tactician masterminded a run to the Europa Conference League semi-finals, proving once more just how well adapted he is to continental success.
Such was the Birmingham team’s transformation that Villa were in the title conversation towards the end of 2023, being labelled as ‘dark horses’ after winning consecutive home games against title contenders Arsenal and Manchester City.
After looking at how Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool have performed during the 2023/24 season, it is now time to delve into this Aston Villa season review.
Individual Performances
There are so many who have played out of their skin this season to help Villa finish in 4th place in the EPL table.
Ollie Watkins, apart from scoring 19 Premier League goals, also provided 13 assists in the competition, taking home the Playmaker of the Season award.
Emiliano Martínez’s heroics in goal also contributed to their overall success this term, with the World Cup winner making 95 saves on the way to securing 8 clean sheets for his team.
Leon Bailey, Diego Carlos, Lucas Digne and Youri Tielemans also played big parts in Villa’s overachieving season.
The Manager
There is not much praise that Unai Emery has not yet received for the way he has turned Aston Villa’s fortunes around.
We awarded him our Manager of the Season distinction ahead of candidates such as Pep Guardiola or Mikel Arteta because we consider him to have a bigger influence on how his team performs, while also ensuring tangible progress for this fascinating Villa team.
He has also earned a new contract with the club back in April, now having an agreement running until 2027. It is certainly well deserved, as he was the mastermind behind Villa’s success over the last 2 seasons.
Looking Ahead
We believe that, with some smart investment this summer, Aston Villa could have a proper shot at the title next season, as they already have good foundations and a manager who will not shy away from a challenge.
However, one thing is certain: with Champions League football come greater demands. Squad depth will need strengthening in order to avoid Newcastle’s fate this season, where a drop-off was evident due to overexertion.