Unai Emery’s early days as a manager at Almería reveal a fascinating approach that set the tone for his coaching career. During his first-ever match in a top-flight league against Deportivo La Coruña in 2007, Emery made the surprising decision to roll a dice to determine his starting lineup. This unconventional move was meant to demonstrate confidence in all his players, emphasizing his commitment to building a united team.
Reflecting on that pivotal moment 17 years later at Aston Villa, Emery expressed that his intention was to instill confidence among his squad. “I wanted to send the message that I believed in everybody and was willing to play everyone,” he explained. This belief in creating a supportive environment underscores his management philosophy, which goes beyond mere tactics to encompass emotional engagement and confidence-building.
Emery’s gamble paid off, as Almería triumphed with a 3-0 victory. This win marked the beginning of a remarkable journey for the coach, who has since gathered four European trophies and has been recognized for his meticulous attention to detail and innovative strategies in managing teams.
As he progresses with Aston Villa, Emery emphasizes the importance of relational coaching, supporting players emotionally while maintaining high expectations. He goes so far as to provide personalized books to his players, designed to encourage personal and professional growth, demonstrating his holistic approach to coaching.
With Aston Villa facing a demanding schedule and competitions in the new Champions League format, Emery is prepared to leverage his squad efficiently. “I like to enjoy different competitions. I want to be competitive,” he affirmed, highlighting his commitment to maximizing the potential of his team.
Looking ahead, Emery aims to elevate his players’ performance levels, particularly focusing on emerging talents like Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran. “My responsibility is to exploit their potential,” he stated, showcasing his ongoing dedication to player development.
Aston Villa will clash with Wycombe in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night, with kickoff scheduled for 8 PM. Stay tuned for updates on their journey in the tournament.
