The Athletic FC Podcast Why Villa can (and can't) challenge for the title
10 snips
Dec 9, 2025 
Jacob Tanswell, Aston Villa correspondent for The Athletic, and Liam Tharme, tactical analyst, dive into Villa's impressive turnaround this season. They discuss Unai Emery's steady management and the tactical nuances that led to their recent success. The duo analyzes key personnel like Pau Torres and Emi Buendía, while also addressing the challenges of squad depth compared to top contenders. They ponder Villa's title chances and celebrate the electrifying atmosphere at Villa Park, highlighting its impact on the team's morale and performance.
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Plan A Over Flexibility Drives Results
- Villa persist with a clear Plan A to overload centrally and exploit wide transitions rather than vast tactical variety.
- That approach wins second balls and creates chances but requires higher-quality depth to switch styles midgame.
Substitute To Change Games And Manage Load
- Use substitutions both to change games and to manage player load across competitions.
- Emery's frequent, timely changes leverage clear tactical roles for impact players off the bench.
Buendía's Late Redemption
- Emi Buendia nearly left Villa in the summer after poor form and an ACL, but he insisted on staying for one more shot.
- His pre-season resurgence and chance-taking turned him into a decisive starter and goal-scorer.