Previous season’s outcome: Fourth place (23 points behind City)
Aston Villa secured their spot in the Champions League by achieving an impressive fourth-place finish in the last season.
Unai Emery has transformed the club from relegation threats to a squad that was considered title challengers for much of the previous season, and this turnaround has occurred within less than two years of his tenure.
To comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations, the club needed to part ways with some players this summer.
Nonetheless, they have welcomed several new signings, including Everton midfielder Amadou Onana, Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen, and Luton midfielder Ross Barkley, along with the return of academy products Jaden Philogene and Cameron Archer.
BBC Sport’s senior football news reporter Nick Mashiter states: “Since taking over when the team was only three points above the relegation zone in October 2022, Unai Emery has led a remarkable transformation, along with Monchi – Villa’s head of football operations – and others.
“They found themselves in the title race last season and finished third, just a point behind then-leaders Arsenal, but defeats to Manchester United and a home loss to Newcastle dashed any hopes by mid-February.
“Villa have seen a minor refresh, with Douglas Luiz and Moussa Diaby being the most notable departures, while Samuel Iling-Junior and Enzo Barrenechea have joined from Juventus. However, they still seem lacking in title-winning experience, despite the significant progress made.”
