The Athletic FC Podcast What's wrong with Aston Villa?
8 snips
Mar 5, 2026 
Chris Waugh, Newcastle correspondent who covers form and European strain. Stuart James, seasoned football journalist with sharp Premier League analysis. Jacob Tanswell, Aston Villa reporter who tracks tactics and squad issues. They dissect Villa's sudden slide, defensive frailties, Watkins' goal drought, Emery's tactics and the wider financial and competitive stakes of chasing the Champions League.
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Villa's Sudden Slide From Title Hope To Defensive Worries
- Aston Villa's form swing has been dramatic: title contenders earlier, now back in a rut despite sitting fourth.
- Jacob Tanswell highlights alarming defensive displays and a pessimistic mood after recent Chelsea and Wolves losses.
Defensive Fragility And Goalkeeper Doubts
- Villa appeared to lack control even after an early goal; defensive fragility and exposed fullbacks were recurring problems.
- Stuart James pointed at vulnerability to balls in behind and worry over goalkeeper performance affecting team confidence.
Watkins' Decline Leaves Villa Too Reliant On Rodrique
- Oli Watkins' prolonged goal drought has been damaging; his minutes-per-goal metrics have regressed since 23-24.
- Jacob notes Villa now rely mostly on Morgan Rogers for effective attacking returns.