The first signing of the Unai Emery era nears its completion. And it’s telling: Emery is bringing in a player to play the “Unai Emery Way”.
During two disappointing back-to-back games at Villa Park; a draw against Wolves, and a FA Cup exit against Stevenage, I believe Emery learned a lot about the squad he inherited from Steven Gerrard. He’ll have a clear vision of the areas where he’ll want a specialised type of player, with a particular skill set or attribute to suit.
Look, weβve not yet reached the first anniversary of the Β£25 million pound deal that brought Lucas Digne to Villa Park from Everton; and potentially Emery is bringing in a replacement. No messing.
THE EMERY WAY
We’re gaining an understanding of how Emery wants his full-backs to operate, similar to how he did with Villareal. When attacking, the left side is more aggressive, with the right tucking in to form a back three; an asymmetric defensive dimension.
So, what does Moreno offer differently to Digne? He’s a lot more aggressive in the challenge, winning 22 of his 29 tackles, compared to just 8 won out of 22 for Digne. He’s also very adventurous in and around the box, boasting a xG of 1.3 and xAG of 1.5 in La Liga this season. And then there is pace; Aston Villa lack pace, and lack ball-carriers in transition – a strength of Moreno’s.
Lucas Digne plays less of a role in the build-up, hugging the touchline and getting himself into positions to deliver a cross. It’s not bad, and his deliveries, at times, are wicked. However, who is he crossing them in to? A big target man? Nah. So the focus from Emery appears to be more on the transition, and contributions in the final third.
LIKE A FINE WINE
30-years-old in June… itβs not old – not in the modern game! Moreno is extremely athletic, and also a late bloomer with plenty in the tank.
Also, Emery will be getting the finished article, one that will require minimal tweaking and comes in as a polished, experienced professional for an important position in this system.
It’s essential for Aston Villa to have that experience during this period of transition; a standard for others to follow. Don’t get me wrong, I love a young signing with the potential to grow in value, but they can’t all be like that, and this deal, at a reported Β£12 million transfer fee, appears to be a good bit of business for the evolution of Emery-ball.
CONCLUSION
Competition in the left-back position was sought after during the summer months. Villa were linked with the likes of Gomez, Henrique, Sosa and Hickey; eventually bringing in Augustinsson as cover rather than competition for Digne.
It will be intriguing to see how Digne reacts. If the deal goes through, I doubt Emery is making Moreno his first signing without the intention of using him as the first-choice full-back.
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AUTHOR | RYAN MCKEOWN
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