Unai Emery Returns to Basel's St Jakob-Park Seeking New Era with Aston Villa in Europa League
Unai Emery returns to Basel's St Jakob-Park, the site of his 2016 Sevilla Europa League triumph, as he aims to build a 'new era' with Aston Villa and achieve success in Europe.
Villa currently stand as the Premier League form team, boasting a seven-match winning run. Their most recent losses were at Liverpool and in October against Go Ahead Eagles. A victory in Basel would elevate Villa to 15 points, potentially securing automatic qualification to the Europa League round of 16 under last season's league-phase format.
Despite being unfancied opponents, Basel pose a significant threat, having won seven straight home Europa League matches this season.
Harvey Elliott is not included in the Basel squad as Villa seek a solution regarding his future amid a £35 million obligation to Liverpool if he reaches 10 appearances.
In transfer news, Villa are negotiating a €12 million deal to acquire Alysson, a 19-year-old winger from Grêmio, expected to join in January.
Youri Tielemans noted that the squad has discussed how to return to their best level after the Sunderland match, emphasizing high standards and the intention to improve.
Emery may rotate the squad ahead of their Sunday's trip to West Ham to maintain momentum.
