- Unai Emery has given an update on the timeline for Amadou Onana’s calf injury
- The Belgian had to withdraw from Aston Villa’s first leg of the Europa League semi-final against Nottingham Forest
- Victor Lindelöf has replaced him in the last two matches
Unai Emery is targeting the Europa League final with Freiburg as the return date of Amadou Onana’s injury. The 24-year-old suffered a calf issue against Nottingham Forest in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final.
After missing the last two games, Victor Lindelöf has been the one to replace him in midfield. He has certainly stepped up to the plate, especially with an outstanding performance in the semi-final second leg, which sent Villa to their first European final in 44 years.
Tactical setup with Lindelöf
The absence of Onana’s physicality has been an issue, but Lindelöf has managed to replicate his aerial dominance and bite in tackles. While the Swedish international was primarily brought in to provide defensive cover, his level of composure on the ball has been really valuable.
In possession, the 31-year-old drops into the right side of a back three to allow Matty Cash to get further forward. John McGinn then drifts inside into a No 10 position to create space for Cash and drag the opposition full-back with him, as well as the defensive midfielder.
This has worked quite well for Villa, as the movement caused problems for Forest, and at times against Burnley. The synergy between Cash and McGinn has become more of a focal point in their offensive transitions due to this change. It forces opponents to decide between tracking the runner or holding their defensive shape, which allows space for McGinn to operate.
They must, however, move the ball quickly when utilising this system, as that is when they look the most dangerous, and when it becomes harder for opposition defences to read.
With a game against Liverpool next, which has become even more important, Emery may decide to use this structure once again.
Emery provides update
When asked about Onana’s injury after the Burnley game, Emery provided an update.
“The doctor told us that it would be two or three weeks, which is more or less the final in the Europa League or the final against Liverpool.
“In case someone can’t play in the final, or against Manchester City, we should find solutions.”
ReadAstonVilla verdict
Lindelöf’s performances have been exemplary, providing a solid, albeit different, solution that has allowed Villa to look more fluid down the right. However, Onana’s presence brings a necessary level of security for high-stakes matches.
A potential return against Freiburg could be the deciding factor in Villa’s historic European pursuit to end their 30-year wait for a trophy.
