Aston Villa boosted as record signing Johan Manzambi returns to training before Hull trip | OneFootball

Aston Villa have received a boost as club-record signing Johan Manzambi returned to first-team training on Thursday after a knee injury, and he could debut sooner than expected. Unai Emery remains minded not to rush the Swiss midfielder for Saturday’s visit to Hull City after two tough defeats.

He joined from Freiburg in July in a deal worth up to £60 million, the most expensive in Villa’s history. The Daily Mail reports that he took part in a collective session on Thursday as he steps up recovery from an injury sustained before he arrived.

After the 1-0 home defeat by Arsenal on 31 August, Emery outlined a cautious plan, stressing the need for a clear, risk-free return. He said Manzambi had been working individually and was only just starting to rejoin group sessions.

His return comes amid major change at Villa Park. Fresh from winning the Europa League and qualifying for the Champions League last season, Villa completed 11 signings. Morgan Rogers left for Chelsea for £117m, Emi Martinez also moved to Stamford Bridge, while Youri Tielemans, Lucas Digne, Ollie Watkins and Ezri Konsa departed, with youngsters Brian Madjo and George Hemmings promoted.

Villa travel to Hull seeking their first Premier League points after losses to Brighton and Arsenal. If Manzambi is held back this weekend, Emery will look to integrate him after the upcoming fixtures as the squad prepare for a demanding European and domestic schedule.

Source: Goal.com

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