Emery eyes Super Cup success as Villa face PSG with depleted squad

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery remains focused on progressing the club to new levels as they prepare to take on European champions Paris St Germain in the upcoming UEFA Super Cup match in Salzburg. Villa achieved major silverware success last season, winning the Europa League final and securing their fifth title in the competition. This victory marked Villa's first continental triumph since winning the European Cup against Bayern Munich in 1982 and subsequently winning the Super Cup.

Emery expressed his satisfaction with the players' performance and their alignment with the club's standards. The manager aims to build a unique mentality but is unwilling to stop there. Emery admitted that he has yet to win a Super Cup title, having failed in three previous attempts, while PSG coach Luis Enrique will be aiming to retain the trophy.

Villa have made significant changes to their squad, with midfielder Youri Tielemans moving to Manchester United and Morgan Rogers joining Chelsea for a British record fee. Jadon Sancho and Douglas Luiz have departed, while Lucas Digne joined PSG. Injuries have also impacted Emery's preparations, leaving midfielder Amadou Onana and new signing Johan Manzambi out of contention.

Despite these departures, Emery remains confident in the club's ambitions, stating that the team is working harder than ever. The club's progress has allowed them to increase their budget, leading to a stronger brand image. However, Villa will be without several key players who have recently returned from the World Cup, including England defender Ezri Konsa, striker Ollie Watkins, and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Emery acknowledged that the team will need to perform well with the resources they have available.