https://x.com/GuillemBalague/status/1880233963546869995?s=08Awakening the Giant: Inside Unai Emery's Aston Villa RevolutionGuillem Balagué Release date August 28 2025The exclusive behind-the-scenes account of Unai Emery's Aston Villa revolution, from the award-winning Sunday Times bestseller Guillem BalaguéIn October 2022, Unai Emery was appointed manager of Aston Villa. Despite being one of England's most historic football clubs, Emery was taking charge of a team in turmoil and hovering above the relegation zone in the Premier League. But in his very first match, Villa produced a statement victory, deftly beating Manchester United 3-1 at Villa Park. It was a sign of things to come.Guillem Balagué has had unparalleled access to Unai Emery, his backroom staff and the Aston Villa squad ever since the Spaniard was appointed manager in 2022. From Emery's early years growing up in the Basque region to becoming one of the most exciting coaches managing today, Awakening the Giant reveals the inner workings of Emery's psyche. Featuring exclusive interviews with Emery himself, as well as key players such as Villa captain John McGinn and star striker Ollie Watkins, it charts the journeys of both Emery and Aston Villa over the last three decades, offering a comprehensive and compelling narrative of why they are the perfect match.Exploring Emery's management of the Midlands side, the book outlines how he has transformed them into an exciting side renowned for their direct passing, high energy and devastating counter attacks. After a 7th placed finish in his first season in charge, Emery's Villa's continued their fine form in the 2023-24 season, finishing 4th and qualifying for the Champions League for the first time in over four decades.With the Holte End roaring into life as Villa Park welcomed the return of European football's most prestigious club competition, it was clear for all to see: Unai Emery had awoken the sleeping giant.
Quote from: Dave P on January 20, 2025, 03:56:17 PMQuote from: olaftab on January 19, 2025, 12:50:59 PMQuote from: Clive W on January 18, 2025, 08:29:24 PMI think that the Bogarde substitution shows that maybe Unai knows a little bit more about football than most of us Does he? Does he know the names of only two clubs in 4 divisions not named after a place? Or what was the capacity of main stand at Millmoor?Port Vale and Arsenal? Is Everton a place?Arsenal were named after Woolwich Arsenal originally, weren't they?
Quote from: olaftab on January 19, 2025, 12:50:59 PMQuote from: Clive W on January 18, 2025, 08:29:24 PMI think that the Bogarde substitution shows that maybe Unai knows a little bit more about football than most of us Does he? Does he know the names of only two clubs in 4 divisions not named after a place? Or what was the capacity of main stand at Millmoor?Port Vale and Arsenal? Is Everton a place?
Quote from: Clive W on January 18, 2025, 08:29:24 PMI think that the Bogarde substitution shows that maybe Unai knows a little bit more about football than most of us Does he? Does he know the names of only two clubs in 4 divisions not named after a place? Or what was the capacity of main stand at Millmoor?
I think that the Bogarde substitution shows that maybe Unai knows a little bit more about football than most of us
I'll get pelters and I love the man but we've not been good this season.
Unai Emery "We can get any result, but it never will be in discussion to not deliver until the last drop of sweat but to play focused and have the five senses on our Aston Villa."I like the use of five senses basically saying a player must give 100% with intelligence and composure, concentrate and use mentality.Brilliant by El Maestro exactly how I like to hear things.
Quote from: Footy-Vill on January 26, 2025, 03:32:59 PMUnai Emery "We can get any result, but it never will be in discussion to not deliver until the last drop of sweat but to play focused and have the five senses on our Aston Villa."I like the use of five senses basically saying a player must give 100% with intelligence and composure, concentrate and use mentality.Brilliant by El Maestro exactly how I like to hear things.And see/smell/touch and taste things?