Barkley fails to make an impact v Sunderland, Aston Villa need a replacement this summer | OneFootball

Aston Villa claimed an enthralling 4-3 win over Sunderland thanks to a last-gasp Tammy Abraham winner following a chaotic game at Villa Park.

The Villains are now inching closer to securing UEFA Champions League football for next season.

It was a difficult clash due to the midweek Europa League fixture, which forced Villa boss Unai Emery to rotate.

Ross Barkley came in for Emiliano Buendia. Starting his fifth successive Premier League game for the Villains, the England international struggled to impose himself on the game.

Barkley missed a big chance, made 0 key passes, won only 2/8 duels, and was dribbled past once.

While he managed to retain possession for the Villains, he was not inventive enough with it.

Aston Villa need Barkley to see out their remaining Premier League games and clinch the Europa League. He needs to improve on this performance.

The Villans cannot afford a passenger in the team with the club eyeing some big goals come May.

Finding a suitable replacement for Barkley this summer has to be one of the club’s top priorities ahead of next season.

Emery could use a quality midfielder who can control games and also prove a difference-maker in the final third to replace the ‘complete’ Barkley.

One intriguing option Villa should seriously consider is Atletico Madrid’s Thiago Almada.

The Argentine has found minutes hard to come by in Spain, and that opens a window of opportunity for a club willing to take a calculated gamble on elite technical quality.

Almada thrives between the lines, capable of unlocking compact defences with his close control and sharp passing, traits the Villains have lacked in Barkley’s inconsistent displays.

Yes, there are concerns about his physicality given his diminutive frame, especially in a league as demanding as the Premier League.

But Emery has consistently shown he can elevate intelligent, technically gifted players within structured systems.

In the right set-up, Almada can evolve into the kind of decisive, creative hub the Villains need. His ability to also play as a winger is handy.