Unai Emery admits Aston Villa feared relegation before Champions League push
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has admitted he feared a relegation battle after a poor start to the season, despite his side now standing on the verge of Champions League qualification.
The Spaniard’s side face a crucial final week of the campaign, taking on Liverpool and Manchester City in the Premier League.
They will also contest the Europa League final against German outfit Freiburg next Wednesday.
However, the former Villarreal boss believes his current squad are already overachieving by challenging the established elite.
Challenging the top seven
Emery insists there is a clear upper tier in English football, which includes Newcastle United alongside the traditional big six.
The 54-year-old places his own team in the chasing pack, grouping them alongside the likes of West Ham United, Everton, and Brighton.
“We have seen at the beginning of the season that there is a top seven in front of us,” said Emery.
“We are the teams behind those teams in the top seven, but Bournemouth, Brighton, Fulham and Brentford are performing fantastic.”
Overcoming early fears
The Midlands club endured a disastrous start to their domestic campaign, failing to register a victory in their opening five league fixtures.
This sluggish form initially left their head coach deeply concerned about their top-flight survival.
“After the first month and the first five matches we played and we were in the bottom, I was worried,” Emery revealed.
“I know how difficult the Premier League is.”
A victory over Liverpool would guarantee top-tier European football at Villa Park next season.
However, a recent slump of three league games without a win, including a draw against relegated Burnley, has added pressure to their top-five ambitions.