“No comment” — Emery responds as Real Madrid links grow louder | OneFootball

Aston Villa coach keeps silent amid talk of replacing Arbeloa

“No comment” — Emery responds as Real Madrid links grow louder

Aston Villa coach Unai Emery refused to comment on reports linking him with the Real Madrid job after Villa finished second in Europa League league phase.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has reacted to speculation suggesting he could replace Alvaro Arbeloa at Real Madrid in the future.

The reports surfaced shortly after Aston Villa secured major result in Europe beating Salzburg 3-2 at home and finishing second in the final standings of the Europa League league phase.

Spanish YouTuber Ramon Alvarez de Mon who is known for covering Real Madrid news, claimed that Emery would be the leading candidate if the Spanish club decide to change coaches at the end of the season.

He also mentioned that recent talks had taken place to assess Emery’s willingness to take on the role following Arbeloa’s appointment after the dismissal of Xabi Alonso.

When asked directly about the rumors, Emery gave short reply:

Villa focus on injuries and upcoming matches

Emery also spoke about injury concerns after the Salzburg match with striker Ollie Watkins picking up fitness issue.

Villa are already missing key players such as captain John McGinn, Youri Tielemans and midfielder Boubacar Kamara who is expected to be out until the end of the season.

Emery explained that Watkins felt “something” but not seriously and the club will run tests on Friday.

He added that it is still unclear if the forward will be available for Sunday’s Premier League match against Brentford.

Villa earn advantage in Europa League knockouts

Despite the injury worries, Emery praised his team’s reaction during tough match.

Salzburg scored in first half and added another early in second but Villa responded strongly to secure the win.

Emery said qualification was the first objective but finishing in the top two gives Aston Villa important benefit as they will play second-leg matches at home in the later rounds.

He also stressed his respect for the Europa League calling it difficult competition to win.

Madrid watching the market

Real Madrid expected to face major decisions at the end of the season and rumors around coaching changes remain constant.

Emery’s experience in European competitions makes him name that continues to attract attention.