Analysis: Emery's new-look team need time

Unai Emery faces the challenge of assembling a new-look Aston Villa side following the departure of nearly the entire core of his Europa League-winning team. A narrow home loss to league champions Liverpool did not cause as much alarm as the 4-0 defeat at Brighton on the opening day of the season. This marks the first time Villa have failed to have a shot on target in a home Premier League game since May 2016, when they were already relegated.

Aston Villa have not gone a whole competitive season without a shot on target since Swansea City in 2017-18.

The team showcased debuts for Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and ex-Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, who were brought in as replacements for the departed Emiliano Martinez and Ollie Watkins. Suzuki's performance was a mix of good and bad - he missed a corner early on and spilled a Kai Havertz shot, allowing him a second attempt. However, he also made crucial saves from Declan Rice’s header and Havertz’s one-on-one opportunity, showcasing composure and proficiency with his passing. Jackson's impact was limited, but Watkins would have struggled given the lack of service.

The closest Villa came to scoring was when Emiliano Buendia's long-range effort hit the woodwork, but the goal was disallowed due to a tackle just before the shot. Summer signings Alejandro Garnacho and Aaron Wan-Bissaka made their Villa Park debuts in the second half, while Ibrahim Mbaye and Taylor Harwood-Bellis watched from the stands and are likely to finalize their moves before the Tuesday transfer deadline.