Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has described Saturday’s showdown with Premier League leaders Arsenal as the ultimate test of his team’s credentials, after Villa’s remarkable surge to third place in the table.
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Villa collected just three points and scored a single goal in their opening five league matches but have since transformed their campaign, winning eight of their last nine games. The resurgence has brought them within six points of leaders Arsenal.
Emery, who previously managed the Gunners, believes his former club remain the strongest contenders to end their 20-year wait for the Premier League crown.
“We now have a really huge opportunity to play against Arsenal — the best team until now and, of course, the favourites to win the Premier League because they are performing and competing fantastically,” Emery said on Friday.
“After our progress, tomorrow is a huge test — collectively, individually, and for me as a coach. I am delighted to have this opportunity.”
While a title challenge may remain a long shot, Villa are firmly in contention for a Champions League spot next season and sit joint top in their Europa League group.
A win at Villa Park in Saturday’s early kick-off would temporarily lift Emery’s side into second place ahead of Manchester City’s match against Sunderland later in the day.
“Of course, if we win, we can be more positive for the next matches,” Emery added, hinting at the possibility of a title push.
“But our race is each match. It’s good to remind ourselves of our experiences — two months ago we were at the bottom, now we are near the top. In two months, we could be down again. This is football, and this is the Premier League — the most difficult league.”
