A decade ago, Aston Villa faced one of their darkest moments—relegation to England's second tier after a dismal season. Fast forward to today, and the club is celebrating a commanding 7-1 aggregate victory over Bologna, securing a spot in the Europa League semi-finals with an air of expectation rather than surprise.
Under the guidance of manager Unai Emery, Villa has undergone a remarkable transformation. Since his arrival in October 2022, when the team was barely above the relegation zone, Emery has instilled a winning mentality and tactical discipline that has propelled Villa back among Europe's elite.
"If someone told me we'd be fighting for the Champions League and in a semi-final of the Europa League a couple of years ago I'd have bitten their hand off," said striker Ollie Watkins, who netted three goals across the two legs against Bologna. "We are just trying to take it all in and enjoy the process."
This marks Villa's second European semi-final in three seasons under Emery, following a Conference League run last year. The club is also firmly in the Premier League top-four race, sitting in fourth place with six games remaining and eyeing a return to the Champions League through league performance.
Former Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov praised the team's collective effort, telling TNT Sports, "Villa was perfect tonight, every player played their part and they are deservedly going through to the semi-final. They fully deserve to enjoy this moment as they worked really hard."
Emery's track record in European competitions—including three Europa League titles with Sevilla and one with Villarreal—has brought a wealth of experience to Villa Park. The Spanish manager has not only raised standards but also reshaped the club's identity, turning spectacular European nights into a regular occurrence.
As Villa prepares to face Nottingham Forest in the semi-finals, the contrast with their relegation struggles a decade ago could not be starker. What was once a period of uncertainty has given way to a new era of ambition and belief, firmly establishing Aston Villa as a force to be reckoned with under Emery's leadership.