John McGinn Lauds Emery as Villa’s Greatest Manager

John McGinn has praised manager Unai Emery, stating that he has never encountered anyone quite like him. With Emery at the helm, Aston Villa is enjoying a remarkable start to the season, recently securing a 2-0 victory over Bologna that propelled them to the top of the Champions League table. As Emery approaches his two-year anniversary at Villa Park on Thursday, he has also guided the team to fourth place in the Premier League just four points behind leaders Liverpool.

Despite not yet winning a trophy with the club, McGinn believes Emery’s impact on Villa’s history is already significant. He said, “No matter what happens from now until he leaves—hopefully never—he will certainly go down as one of our club’s greatest managers.” McGinn emphasized that the team feeds off Emery’s leadership and dedication, noting, “He is just so driven. I have never met anyone like him.”

John McGinn also pointed out that Emery remains focused and grounded, showing little excitement over Villa’s early-season success. The manager’s intensity and commitment ensure that the team maintains its momentum and energy. Since Emery took over on October 24, 2022, the transformation has been striking. Previously just three points off relegation, Villa is now enjoying its best start to a Premier League season in 26 years.

This impressive run includes a significant victory against Bayern Munich. Emery boasts a win percentage of 55.79 from his 95 matches in charge, the highest in the club’s 150-year history. Former players and pundits including Matthew Upson and Martin Keown have commended Emery’s management style and the positive direction he has taken the club, highlighting the exciting future that lies ahead for Aston Villa under his guidance.