"Villa Coach" speaks frankly about "Arsenal" after winning 11 consecutive games, now in contention for the Premier League title.
On 28 December 2025, Unai Emery, manager of Aston Villa, currently the hottest team form-wise, gave an interview after the 18th Premier League match of the 2025-26 season. Villa narrowly defeated top-table rivals Chelsea 2-1 away.
This victory marked Aston Villa's 11th consecutive win in all competitions, equaling the club record set twice before, in 1897 and 1914. They have also won 8 consecutive top-flight league matches since October to December 1910.
At present, Aston Villa sits 3rd in the league table with 39 points, firmly in the Premier League title race alongside leaders Arsenal with 42 points and second-placed Manchester City with 40 points.
When asked if Aston Villa has risen to become a Premier League title contender this season, Unai Emery responded, "Not at all. I feel we are competing very well, and we are currently third in the league alongside two great teams: Manchester City and Arsenal."
"We have to play 38 matches. We have played 18 and have 20 remaining. Teams like Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United are also competing. We must strive to maintain consistent form throughout all 38 matches."
Regarding the upcoming match where Aston Villa will visit Arsenal on Tuesday, 30 December, which if won would level the points, Unai Emery, the former "Gunners" manager, said, "Of course, we are playing against Arsenal, and we have the mindset to compete fully."
"We will not discuss our league objectives until matchday 34, because several teams like Liverpool and Chelsea are fiercely battling for points. They remain more intense than us as they fight to stay in the title race."
"Certainly, we are performing very well with many consecutive wins. We have competed excellently, especially in the first half. We faced some challenges, but in the second half, we gradually improved and became more humble, much like this season overall."