Garnacho Told to Improve Training as Aston Villa Start Wait Continues

Alejandro Garnacho faces a fight to establish himself at Aston Villa after Unai Emery made clear that the Chelsea loanee is currently behind several younger attacking options. Villa’s manager has called on the Argentina international to improve his training work and remain patient as he attempts to earn a first start.

Key takeaways

• Garnacho has made three substitute appearances since arriving from Chelsea on a season-long loan.
• Villa have lost against Brighton and Arsenal during his cameos, while drawing with Hull City.
• Emery identified George Hemmings, Ibrahim Mbaye and Alysson as players presently ahead in the competition for places.
• Tammy Abraham scored twice and Ross Barkley added another in the Carabao Cup victory over Coventry City.
• Joao Gomes could return for Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Tottenham Hotspur after fitness tests on Thursday and Friday.

Garnacho told to earn his opportunity

The 22-year-old arrived at Villa Park with expectations high after leaving Stamford Bridge for the season, having previously played for Manchester United. Yet his involvement has been limited to late appearances in three matches, and Emery said the winger’s standing will depend on what he delivers in training rather than his profile.

Emery’s message was direct: Garnacho must keep working, training hard and take his opportunities when minutes arrive. The manager said the forward is making progress but remains behind other members of the squad, partly because of circumstances affecting his pre-season preparation. Villa intend to give him the time required to catch up.

Hemmings, Mbaye and Alysson have instead caught Emery’s attention. He praised Hemmings’ performances, said Brazilian summer signing Alysson is quickly understanding what is required, and felt Mbaye has responded positively when called upon. Emery wants competition throughout a squad capable of playing in Villa’s preferred style.

Coventry win offers encouragement before Spurs test

Villa’s cup success over Coventry came at an important point in a difficult opening to the Premier League season. Following substantial summer turnover, Emery’s side had collected only one point from their first four league fixtures, placing early scrutiny on the team’s development.

Abraham’s two goals and Barkley’s strike gave the group a timely lift. Emery said Villa are beginning to compete in the direction of their objectives, with building comfort and confidence among the new arrivals a major priority. He described the Coventry result as a step forward, while stressing that the reworked squad will need further time to improve.

Attention now turns to Tottenham on Saturday, with Gomes’ availability still uncertain. The Brazilian midfielder missed the Coventry match and will be assessed over the next two days. Emery said Gomes needs a little more recovery time, but could be in contention for the weekend if his Thursday and Friday tests are positive.