20/05/2026
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SC Freiburg v Aston Villa — TNT Sports 1
Tüpraş Stadium, Istanbul | Kick-off: 8:00 PM BST
It’s the Europa League Final night, and while our focus as Evertonians remains locked on the massive opportunity spurned by the Blues back home in the Premier League run-in, it’s impossible to look at tonight's showpiece in Istanbul without a distinct sense of "what could have been."
Unai Emery’s Aston Villa head into the Tüpraş Stadium as heavy favourites against Bundesliga outfit SC Freiburg. Villa are chasing their first piece of major silverware in 30 years, and they've largely bulldozed their way to Turkey to do it. But for those watching from the Blue half of Merseyside, the intrigue lies in the DNA of this midlands side — specifically, the high-profile Everton expatriates likely to dictate whether the trophy returns to England.
The Blue Thread in Villa's Charge
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Amadou Onana: The biggest talking point leading up to kick-off. After missing the last few domestic matches through injury, the Belgian powerhouse trained this week and faces a late fitness test. If he’s handed a starting shirt by Emery, expect him to do exactly what he did for Everton — disrupt, dominate aerially, and anchor the transition. Seeing him lift a European trophy less than 2 years after anchoring our midfield will undoubtedly leave a bitter taste for some.
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Lucas Digne: The French full-back has been a model of consistency for Villa on their European journey. While his departure from Goodison under Rafa Benítez remains a textbook example of our past administrative dysfunction, Digne has quietly rebuilt his status as one of the premier attacking left-backs in the country. His crossing from the left will be a chief supply line for Ollie Watkins tonight.
The Ineligible Bystander: It’s also worth noting Ross Barkley is part of the furniture at Villa Park these days. While "Diamond Ross" won't pick up a medal tonight — having been left out of their squad registration for this competition — his resurgence under Emery is just another reminder of the varied paths our academy products take.
The Opposition: Freiburg's Fairy Tale
Freiburg, managed by Julian Schuster, are appearing in their first-ever major European final. They finished a modest seventh in the Bundesliga but have turned into knockout specialists, navigating past the likes of Lens, Celta Vigo, and Braga to book their ticket to Istanbul. They are a dangerous, cohesive unit with nothing to lose, but Villa's explosive attacking output — spearheaded by Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins — makes the English side heavily fancied.
It’s tough watching former Evertonians shine on Europe's grandest stage while we look forward to another summer of tightening the financial belt. Villa have spent heavily and wisely, utilizing former Blues to build a resilient spine.
Freiburg will give them a tactical battle, but Emery knows exactly how to win this trophy. Expect Onana and Digne to be celebrating by midnight.
Reader Comments (122)
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Ian Jones
2 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:26:39
2 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:26:39
As an Evertonian, I’ve got no problem backing a fellow English side in Europe tonight. Fair play to Villa and especially Unai Emery, who just keeps proving people wrong.
Funny really, because only a few years ago when Everton were crying out for a proper manager, Emery’s name was mentioned and I may be wrong but seem to remember plenty of Blues turned their noses up at the thought of Emery.
Since then he’s transformed Villa, revived careers and convinced former Everton players to buy into his methods. Now two of them could be lifting a European trophy tonight. Shows what happens when a club gets the right manager and structure in place.
Funny really, because only a few years ago when Everton were crying out for a proper manager, Emery’s name was mentioned and I may be wrong but seem to remember plenty of Blues turned their noses up at the thought of Emery.
Since then he’s transformed Villa, revived careers and convinced former Everton players to buy into his methods. Now two of them could be lifting a European trophy tonight. Shows what happens when a club gets the right manager and structure in place.
Edward Rogers
3 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:41:54
3 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:41:54
I would love Villa to win.
Any British team gets my support (not includubg the Red Shite, obviously).
Wish it was us, but Villa have seen dark days just like us.
Any British team gets my support (not includubg the Red Shite, obviously).
Wish it was us, but Villa have seen dark days just like us.
Rob Hooton
4 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:43:15
4 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:43:15
Cheering for Villa tonight, a decent old club and our regular opponents in the most played top flight league match!
Tony Hughes
5 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:46:29
5 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:46:29
Oh for nights like this, but then some fans were saying we're not ready.
Fuck that, we should be in Europe, an opportunity missed this season to raise our profile and bring in more income.
Fuck that, we should be in Europe, an opportunity missed this season to raise our profile and bring in more income.
Paul Hewitt
6 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:48:41
6 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:48:41
Villa where in the championship not to long ago, same as Bournemouth. Look how far both clubs have come in a short space of time. Why can't we develop them them?
Oliver Molloy
7 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:59:54
7 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:59:54
Rohl former side can win this he reckons
Liam Mogan
8 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:16:45
8 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:16:45
Emery's transformation of Villa shows that it is possible to improve, no matter how much Jaded Moyes, David Brent Kinnear and the rest try to dumb down expectations. Not having it.
Billy Shears
9 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:17:30
9 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:17:30
Agreed Tony,100% but sadly,we never win the BIG games,when it really matters most!
Andrew Ellams
10 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:21:19
10 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:21:19
Another referee turned up to be the star of the show.
Michael Kenrick
11 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:23:07
11 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:23:07
Why didn't the Freiburg captain go off for 30 s after getting treatment?
Liam Mogan
12 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:25:06
12 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:25:06
Freiburg captain looks like Catweazle.
Did the Villa player get booked? If you get booked then the player injured doesnt have to come off.
Did the Villa player get booked? If you get booked then the player injured doesnt have to come off.
Michael Kenrick
13 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:33:56
13 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:33:56
Ah, I thought that might be the case. Thanks Liam.
Tight and defensive stalemate... Moyes will be revelling at every sideways and backwards pass.
Tight and defensive stalemate... Moyes will be revelling at every sideways and backwards pass.
Liam Mogan
14 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:34:02
14 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:34:02
Poor game though. No flow. Fouls every minute.
Liam Mogan
15 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:37:09
15 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:37:09
These Freiburg fans don't shut up.
Michael Kenrick
16 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:39:28
16 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:39:28
Didn't look up when he fizzed it.
No one anticipating it.
No one anticipating it.
Jim Bennings
17 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:40:26
17 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:40:26
Tielmanns with a peach
Michael Kenrick
18 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:41:08
18 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:41:08
What a strike!
Extremely difficult ball to hit on the volley so perfectly.
Extremely difficult ball to hit on the volley so perfectly.
Jim Bennings
19 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:45:21
19 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:45:21
Imagine us winning a European trophy in the modern era lol.
About as much chance of me planet hopping.
About as much chance of me planet hopping.
Liam Mogan
20 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:45:30
20 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:45:30
Villa come up with a beautifully rehearsed inventive set piece goal.
Our set piece innovation involved KDH booting it 60 yards up in the air from kick offs.
And people say we cant get better than Jaded Moyes, his tired coaching team and clichéd approach
Our set piece innovation involved KDH booting it 60 yards up in the air from kick offs.
And people say we cant get better than Jaded Moyes, his tired coaching team and clichéd approach
Michael Kenrick
21 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:47:43
21 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:47:43
Villa leaving four men upfield at a corner against them!
That's right after scoring, when they are (supposedly) the most vulnerable? (I've never believed that footie folklore fantasy fable, to be honest.)
And there a blinder from Buendia!
That's right after scoring, when they are (supposedly) the most vulnerable? (I've never believed that footie folklore fantasy fable, to be honest.)
And there a blinder from Buendia!
Liam Mogan
22 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:48:36
22 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:48:36
Beauty!
Michael Kenrick
23 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:50:10
23 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:50:10
I've seen Ndiaye score goals like that...
Every other Blue Moon. On average.
Every other Blue Moon. On average.
Tony Hughes
24 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:52:37
24 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:52:37
High tempo risk averse football paying off
Tony Hughes
25 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:54:07
25 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:54:07
Moyes is the Cliff Thorburn of football, the Grinder
Liam Mogan
26 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:55:30
26 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:55:30
Hes probably on Grinder too.
Kunal Desai
27 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:56:49
27 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:56:49
Aston Villa making history and ending a 44 year drought.
It'll Palace next week as well creating new highs.
Some clubs just believe.
It'll Palace next week as well creating new highs.
Some clubs just believe.
Michael Kenrick
28 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:57:57
28 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:57:57
Both Villa goals scored by players who were completely unmarked.
Shockingly bad defending?
Shockingly bad defending?
Kevin Naylor
29 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:58:20
29 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:58:20
I'd love to see Moyes do a Q&A session with real fans, doubt he has the bottle.
Jim Bennings
30 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:59:55
30 Posted 20/05/2026 at 20:59:55
Everton must now be the only ever present top flight side in the last 30 years that hasn't won a trophy.
You have had all the ones you expect win something, last year we had Newcastle end a trophy drought, Crystal Palace win the FA Cup, Leicester who are now in League One have won 2 League Cups, a league title and FA Cup all since we last seen a fucking piece of shiny silverware.
But you will get fans that will happily settle for 13th every season as long as they haven't got a sweaty arse on the last day worrying themselves silly about a make-believe relegation battle.
You have had all the ones you expect win something, last year we had Newcastle end a trophy drought, Crystal Palace win the FA Cup, Leicester who are now in League One have won 2 League Cups, a league title and FA Cup all since we last seen a fucking piece of shiny silverware.
But you will get fans that will happily settle for 13th every season as long as they haven't got a sweaty arse on the last day worrying themselves silly about a make-believe relegation battle.
Liam Mogan
31 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:02:25
31 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:02:25
Not great defending Michael.
But if you watch the Villa players on the corner they actively push the Frieburg defenders right back onto the 6 yard box to create the space.
Emery looks to have highlighted their tendency to defend deep and come up with a plan to disrupt their positioning.
Its called proper coaching that.
But if you watch the Villa players on the corner they actively push the Frieburg defenders right back onto the 6 yard box to create the space.
Emery looks to have highlighted their tendency to defend deep and come up with a plan to disrupt their positioning.
Its called proper coaching that.
Kunal Desai
32 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:02:50
32 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:02:50
Add Spurs to that as well Jim.
Maybe Brighton or Bournemouth to lift some silverware next season?
Maybe Brighton or Bournemouth to lift some silverware next season?
Tony Hughes
33 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:12:18
33 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:12:18
We're favourites to win the Stability Cup
Paul Griffiths
34 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:14:42
34 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:14:42
And there are more than a few on here who think that McGinn would not improve our side. We should be so lucky.
And there are some nice catches in the event of a West Ham fire sale - Diouf, that teenage central defender, Somerville, Bowen out of our league. So Soucek it is.
Anyone else having a few memories of Rotterdam?
And there are some nice catches in the event of a West Ham fire sale - Diouf, that teenage central defender, Somerville, Bowen out of our league. So Soucek it is.
Anyone else having a few memories of Rotterdam?
Tony Hughes
35 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:15:06
35 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:15:06
If we finish 14th then we're bottom of the not quite best of the rest mini league
Tony Hughes
36 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:19:29
36 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:19:29
14 goals from Rogers this season, thats what you need from midfield
Paul Griffiths
37 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:19:41
37 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:19:41
Villa were behind us a few years ago.
Jim Bennings
38 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:21:06
38 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:21:06
We can't even win the John Moore's Senior Cup anymore since they ditched it, save us losing to Tranmere.
Liam Mogan
39 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:22:57
39 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:22:57
"Happily dissatisfied" just about sums up the shite coming out of our club.
Meanwhile, Emery is 30 minutes from winning his fifth Europa League.
Meanwhile, Emery is 30 minutes from winning his fifth Europa League.
Paul Griffiths
40 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:25:13
40 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:25:13
Here's Onana.
Paul Griffiths
41 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:26:14
41 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:26:14
I hope that Saint Angus the Silent lives to regret that bollocks Liam.
Paul Griffiths
42 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:27:34
42 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:27:34
Were all the previous 4 with Sevilla Liam?
Liam Mogan
43 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:29:09
43 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:29:09
He sat for a whole afternoon in the boardroom with a shithead grin on his kite a la David Brent after coming up with that one.
'You can't have a rainbow without a little rain' --bellend
'You can't have a rainbow without a little rain' --bellend
Joe McMahon
44 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:31:43
44 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:31:43
I honestly feel Everton are going backwards, too many clubs are now achieving more, and we have Moyes back.
This could be year 13 at Everton, that's not good for any club.
This could be year 13 at Everton, that's not good for any club.
Liam Mogan
45 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:32:03
45 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:32:03
3 with Sevilla, 1 with Vilarreal. Also reached the final with Arsenal.
Davie's claim to fame is winning once away at Man Utd in about 30 attempts.
Davie's claim to fame is winning once away at Man Utd in about 30 attempts.
Paul Hewitt
46 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:34:02
46 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:34:02
Will we ever have nights like this again?
Tony Hughes
47 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:34:23
47 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:34:23
Some great football from Villa
Jim Bennings
48 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:34:42
48 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:34:42
As the years pass the patience of long term Evertonian's is wearing more and more thin, no matter who the incumbent will be at the helm going forward now, the fans want some genuine tangible success.
It's 17 years since we got to any Cup Final which for a club with our fanbase and past is a complete fucking sick joke in its own right.
31, soon to be 32 years since we won a trophy, let that sink in, how the actual fuck has that been allowed to fester and go largely unquestioned by the powers that be at a club that's not seen a relegation since the 1950's and had a long rich history of picking up trophies on a regular basis.
Fucking sort this substandard low expectation shite out and root out all the "we are terrified of being relegated" losers that are either within the club or supporting it.
It's 17 years since we got to any Cup Final which for a club with our fanbase and past is a complete fucking sick joke in its own right.
31, soon to be 32 years since we won a trophy, let that sink in, how the actual fuck has that been allowed to fester and go largely unquestioned by the powers that be at a club that's not seen a relegation since the 1950's and had a long rich history of picking up trophies on a regular basis.
Fucking sort this substandard low expectation shite out and root out all the "we are terrified of being relegated" losers that are either within the club or supporting it.
Paul Griffiths
49 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:35:20
49 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:35:20
Villa haven't won a major trophy for thirty years - THIRTY - 1996. They must be the major PL team with the longest drought.
Tony Hughes
50 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:38:57
50 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:38:57
Just happy to make up the numbers should be our motto Jim
Jim Bennings
51 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:40:43
51 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:40:43
Paul
You do realize they are winning tonight right?
And that 1996 was later than 1995?
Or are you just saying that in jest?
You do realize they are winning tonight right?
And that 1996 was later than 1995?
Or are you just saying that in jest?
Paul Griffiths
52 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:43:05
52 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:43:05
Jest Jim. Come on. And Freiburg are not out of this.
Jack Convery
53 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:43:58
53 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:43:58
Southampton kicked out - Official from BBC.
Will the English clubs win all 3 Euro finals or will Arsenal let the Prem down ?
Jim Bennings @44. The reaction after Sunderland's third goal spoke volumes. It backs up your observation that many an older Evertonian has had enough. Especially with no future progression in sight.
Will the English clubs win all 3 Euro finals or will Arsenal let the Prem down ?
Jim Bennings @44. The reaction after Sunderland's third goal spoke volumes. It backs up your observation that many an older Evertonian has had enough. Especially with no future progression in sight.
Liam Mogan
54 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:45:02
54 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:45:02
'Just happy to get beat by 1 goal, or maybe 2 at a push'
Ive just shelled out £1600 for 2 season tickets, like a lot of us will have, and feel that we should be getting something better than what we have.
No one is expecting miracles but we deserve better than the condescending 'happily dissatisfied' and 'amazing that Everton are talking about Europe' statements from our erstwhile leaders.
Ive just shelled out £1600 for 2 season tickets, like a lot of us will have, and feel that we should be getting something better than what we have.
No one is expecting miracles but we deserve better than the condescending 'happily dissatisfied' and 'amazing that Everton are talking about Europe' statements from our erstwhile leaders.
Paul Griffiths
55 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:47:10
55 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:47:10
We never actually made it into a Euro spot this season did we?
Liam Mogan
56 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:49:44
56 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:49:44
We talked about it though, Paul.
And apparently top quality players will be flocking to join us because for a week in March we had a mathematical chance. All down to the genius of Jaded Moyes.
And apparently top quality players will be flocking to join us because for a week in March we had a mathematical chance. All down to the genius of Jaded Moyes.
Tony Hughes
57 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:50:53
57 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:50:53
Well done the Villa
Jack Convery
58 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:52:14
58 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:52:14
Well done Villa. Great Performance with Great Goals.
Paul Griffiths
59 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:52:14
59 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:52:14
Arsenal's team celebrations last night were much better
Oliver Molloy
60 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:52:34
60 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:52:34
Ally McCoist on Emery as a tactician " there's different ways you can play football and win a game of football "
Really !, Have a word with Moyes then !
Really !, Have a word with Moyes then !
Billy Shears
61 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:52:57
61 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:52:57
When's our turn?
Jim Bennings
62 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:54:35
62 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:54:35
In other news, Southampton are having a giant screening at St Mary's this Bank Holiday Monday.
The Spy That Shagged Me, apparently you can either go in the ground free or simply stand behind a tree with binoculars.
The Spy That Shagged Me, apparently you can either go in the ground free or simply stand behind a tree with binoculars.
Paul Griffiths
63 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:54:53
63 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:54:53
Well done Villa.
I'm really dreading this window Liam. I really am. It ought to be something to look forward to. A time to strengthen and put things right. I trust no one in our erm management team.
I'm really dreading this window Liam. I really am. It ought to be something to look forward to. A time to strengthen and put things right. I trust no one in our erm management team.
Billy Shears
64 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:56:06
64 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:56:06
Oh yeah...it's all about... STABILITY.
Silly me!
Silly me!
Paul Griffiths
65 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:56:21
65 Posted 20/05/2026 at 21:56:21
Funny that, Freiburg being sponsored by Jo Brand.
Nick Page
66 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:02:01
66 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:02:01
These and Newcastle were below us in the table not so long ago. We really are the most pointless bollockless football club in 4 divisions. You make your own luck, Everton. Sick to death of it.
Well done Villa
Well done Villa
Kevin Molloy
67 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:03:00
67 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:03:00
all this fretting about our moves in the market. I'm hearing tonight that Soucek is already done. It's in the bag. He doesn't want to go anywhere else. So let's calm down and let the professionals get on with their job.
Soren Moyer
68 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:03:05
68 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:03:05
I'm sick to my teeth of watching other clubs challenging for trophies, Europe, and whatnot, while we're stuck with Moyes, celebrating a one-point improvement over last season!
Billy Shears
69 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:04:01
69 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:04:01
Be honest my fellow Blues... would we have won that final 3-0?
Nick Page
70 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:06:29
70 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:06:29
Moyes would have bottled it Billy. Mr Glass Ceiling. Absolutely reeks of mediocrity.
Get rid of Moyes now Everton and start looking forwards. Don’t let him dither with another £100m in the transfer market and waste it.
Get rid of Moyes now Everton and start looking forwards. Don’t let him dither with another £100m in the transfer market and waste it.
James Marshall
71 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:08:26
71 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:08:26
7 years from the Championship to the Champions League and now winning the UEFA Cup (which is what it really is). Great times and good luck to Villa.
I'm 53 this year, will we ever win anything again in my lifetime? It doesn't feel like it.
I'm 53 this year, will we ever win anything again in my lifetime? It doesn't feel like it.
Tony Hughes
72 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:08:53
72 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:08:53
Progress Soren, we should be eternally grateful to the Moyesiah
Liam Mogan
73 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:09:14
73 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:09:14
There was a debate on these pages not so long ago about Moyes and Emery and comments that they weren't that different.
They are completely different. Emery is a strategist and a pragmatist. He studies opposition teams and comes up with plans and ways to beat them. Doesn't always come off, but that's his strength. Moyes is a one-trick pony whose limitations are often confused with pragmatism. He's not a pragmatist, he just doesnt know any other way to approach the game.
Tonight's game showed Emery to be on another level to Jaded Moyes.
2 things. Firstly, as noted by MK, he left 4 players up when defending corners, because Frieburgs main threat was set pieces. By leaving men up, Freiberg had to leave some danger men back.
Secondly, he got the whole team to work together to create space 15-25 yards out for shots by pushing the Freiberg line deeper and deeper. That wasnt an accident or a lucky break. That was proper coaching, invention and hours of work.
Football is a simple game, so they say, but its made easier by hard work and clear and proactive coaching.
They are completely different. Emery is a strategist and a pragmatist. He studies opposition teams and comes up with plans and ways to beat them. Doesn't always come off, but that's his strength. Moyes is a one-trick pony whose limitations are often confused with pragmatism. He's not a pragmatist, he just doesnt know any other way to approach the game.
Tonight's game showed Emery to be on another level to Jaded Moyes.
2 things. Firstly, as noted by MK, he left 4 players up when defending corners, because Frieburgs main threat was set pieces. By leaving men up, Freiberg had to leave some danger men back.
Secondly, he got the whole team to work together to create space 15-25 yards out for shots by pushing the Freiberg line deeper and deeper. That wasnt an accident or a lucky break. That was proper coaching, invention and hours of work.
Football is a simple game, so they say, but its made easier by hard work and clear and proactive coaching.
Derek Thomas
74 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:29:32
74 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:29:32
Well done Villa - I won't hold my breath waiting for a Kinnear/Moyes leadership (Ha!) to copy your feats.
Liam@ 73;
"...he left 4 players up when defending corners, because Frieburgs main threat was set pieces."
Wow, revolutionary, why hasn't anybody else thought of it...oh wait, plenty of the dumbass know nothing's on here already have - not 'My way or the highway' (there's no highway option actually) Moyes though...(why does the Harry Enfield / Cholmondly/Warner football sketch come to mind?)
Moyes 2.0 actually came in and did something for his first 19 games...much to my surprise...but that 2.0 was only a poor spray on tan job and it's worn off now - we're back with the old 1.0
'I need mour salt on ma porridge - Poor Plan A - No Plan B'
Liam@ 73;
"...he left 4 players up when defending corners, because Frieburgs main threat was set pieces."
Wow, revolutionary, why hasn't anybody else thought of it...oh wait, plenty of the dumbass know nothing's on here already have - not 'My way or the highway' (there's no highway option actually) Moyes though...(why does the Harry Enfield / Cholmondly/Warner football sketch come to mind?)
Moyes 2.0 actually came in and did something for his first 19 games...much to my surprise...but that 2.0 was only a poor spray on tan job and it's worn off now - we're back with the old 1.0
'I need mour salt on ma porridge - Poor Plan A - No Plan B'
Kunal Desai
75 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:29:37
75 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:29:37
A winners mentality also means the owners putting a solid footballing structure in place.
Nothing against the guy but if all TFG could do was come up with Kinnear as CEO after being on place for six months then it doesn't bode well.
Nothing against the guy but if all TFG could do was come up with Kinnear as CEO after being on place for six months then it doesn't bode well.
Oliver Molloy
76 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:42:04
76 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:42:04
@ 68
are you really excited by Soucek !
are you really excited by Soucek !
John Collins
77 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:56:09
77 Posted 20/05/2026 at 22:56:09
Made up for the Villa fans.
They've been waiting nearly as long as us.
They've been waiting nearly as long as us.
John Collins
78 Posted 20/05/2026 at 23:01:34
78 Posted 20/05/2026 at 23:01:34
Jack 53.
Do you think any opposition coach would spy on Everton.
Or do they not need to because they already know how we play every week.
Do you think any opposition coach would spy on Everton.
Or do they not need to because they already know how we play every week.
Billy Shears
79 Posted 20/05/2026 at 23:32:19
79 Posted 20/05/2026 at 23:32:19
To be blunt...it would've gone exactly like the Cup tie with the Mackems more than likely!
I haven't once backed against us this season but that goes this Sunday...as am sure the Spuds will do us comfortably.
I haven't once backed against us this season but that goes this Sunday...as am sure the Spuds will do us comfortably.
Nick Page
80 Posted 20/05/2026 at 23:40:26
80 Posted 20/05/2026 at 23:40:26
Across The Park Podcast: David Moyes -- Stability or Ambition?
It's only taken 30 years for some Evertonians to wake the fuck up. There are still some that think Kenwright was the saviour. Some want Moyes to stay. You're not Evertonians by the way, you're millstones around the club's neck.
Nowhere Man FC... Please listen.
It's only taken 30 years for some Evertonians to wake the fuck up. There are still some that think Kenwright was the saviour. Some want Moyes to stay. You're not Evertonians by the way, you're millstones around the club's neck.
Nowhere Man FC... Please listen.
Stu Gre
81 Posted 20/05/2026 at 00:14:29
81 Posted 20/05/2026 at 00:14:29
Villa were 16th in the table when Emery took over. They finished 7th that season and haven't looked back.
To every Moyes fan saying "look at West Ham" I say look at Villa.
Ambition with structure and nerve gives you success. Congrats Villa
To every Moyes fan saying "look at West Ham" I say look at Villa.
Ambition with structure and nerve gives you success. Congrats Villa
Paul Griffiths
82 Posted 21/05/2026 at 02:44:48
82 Posted 21/05/2026 at 02:44:48
Nick Page (@80): wow that's a compelling link, who could fail not to be swayed by a couple of strangers mouthing off for under two minutes saying things that have been said repeatedly on here. Absolutely compelling Mr. Page.
While we're at it Mr. Page, can you name one - ONE - poster on here who thinks that 'Kenwright was the saviour'. Just one. Go on. You can't can you? You just make stupid crap up, true to form.
And who the fuck are you Billy Liar to say that people - not me - who might want Moyes to stay are not Evertonians.
While we're at it Mr. Page, can you name one - ONE - poster on here who thinks that 'Kenwright was the saviour'. Just one. Go on. You can't can you? You just make stupid crap up, true to form.
And who the fuck are you Billy Liar to say that people - not me - who might want Moyes to stay are not Evertonians.
Mick O\\\'Malley
83 Posted 21/05/2026 at 05:49:20
83 Posted 21/05/2026 at 05:49:20
Soucek is in the bag? Ffs I'm faster than him and I'm 57, he's an absolutely bang average midfielder, if this is the level of signings we are going to make than I literally couldn't care less anymore, anyway congratulations to Villa, a sleeping giant wakes up while we sleep on
Merle Urquart
84 Posted 21/05/2026 at 07:25:28
84 Posted 21/05/2026 at 07:25:28
On another note, juat read in mail online that Arsenal are preparing a bumper deal with Arteta that will put him on a par with David Moyes at Everton
Mike Powell
85 Posted 21/05/2026 at 08:27:30
85 Posted 21/05/2026 at 08:27:30
Happy for Villa, but jealous of them too,would love us to win a trophy of some sort, any trophy will do and party all night long, it's been 30 odd years, and we are still no nearer to winning anything,Well done Villa enjoy the moment
Nick Page
86 Posted 21/05/2026 at 08:38:15
86 Posted 21/05/2026 at 08:38:15
I think you've missed the point there, Paul.
But carry on having a Moyes-inspired hissy fit. My pleasure.
But carry on having a Moyes-inspired hissy fit. My pleasure.
Paul Griffiths
87 Posted 21/05/2026 at 08:58:22
87 Posted 21/05/2026 at 08:58:22
No, Mr Page, I want Moyes to go. But, typically, your posts are full of crap and you lied, lad. Deal with that.
Remember the old days, Nick, when you urged us to march at home games that you never went to?
Remember the old days, Nick, when you urged us to march at home games that you never went to?
Paul Hewitt
88 Posted 21/05/2026 at 09:04:38
88 Posted 21/05/2026 at 09:04:38
Merle@84.
Moyes earns £5M a year, Arteta earns £10M a year. I can't see Arteta being happy about that.
Moyes earns £5M a year, Arteta earns £10M a year. I can't see Arteta being happy about that.
Mark Murphy
89 Posted 21/05/2026 at 10:50:53
89 Posted 21/05/2026 at 10:50:53
Can we go all in for Emery and change our name to Evillaton?
Sean Mitchell
90 Posted 21/05/2026 at 10:55:23
90 Posted 21/05/2026 at 10:55:23
I turned it off at 3-0. It's painful seeing clubs move forward whilst we have Moyes and stand still. Well done to Villa.
I'm sick to fuckin death of seeing other clubs like Palace, Newcastle, Villa win things and we're as shite as ever and nowhere near a final. The club is steeped in mediocrity and fuckin losers.
On to Sunday and we know what'll happen. Shit the bed FC.
Rant over!
I'm sick to fuckin death of seeing other clubs like Palace, Newcastle, Villa win things and we're as shite as ever and nowhere near a final. The club is steeped in mediocrity and fuckin losers.
On to Sunday and we know what'll happen. Shit the bed FC.
Rant over!
Merle Urquart
91 Posted 21/05/2026 at 12:07:27
91 Posted 21/05/2026 at 12:07:27
@88 Paul
You missed the point there Paul... l was alluding to the fact that we're not getting value for money.
You missed the point there Paul... l was alluding to the fact that we're not getting value for money.
Tony Abrahams
92 Posted 21/05/2026 at 14:09:20
92 Posted 21/05/2026 at 14:09:20
I've just started scrolling back from the end to the beginning, got to Stu's post@81, and think this explains everything to me.
"Emery has got similar numbers to Moyes" was something I read on these pages the other week, so maybe I should just be thankful that we aren't going into the last game like those Spurs or West Ham fans! 🙈
"Emery has got similar numbers to Moyes" was something I read on these pages the other week, so maybe I should just be thankful that we aren't going into the last game like those Spurs or West Ham fans! 🙈
Steve Brown
93 Posted 21/05/2026 at 14:28:55
93 Posted 21/05/2026 at 14:28:55
Interesting quote from Uni Emery after winning the Europa League:
“This is the first one and we are achieving and the experiences we are having is every important in how we can get better. Trophies make sense of what we are doing. We are not going to stop.”
Trophes make sense of what are are doing. Too bloody right it does, unilke treating finishing 7th as success.
Villa are not going to stop…. when are we going to start?
“This is the first one and we are achieving and the experiences we are having is every important in how we can get better. Trophies make sense of what we are doing. We are not going to stop.”
Trophes make sense of what are are doing. Too bloody right it does, unilke treating finishing 7th as success.
Villa are not going to stop…. when are we going to start?
James Flynn
94 Posted 21/05/2026 at 20:42:37
94 Posted 21/05/2026 at 20:42:37
"Trophies make sense of what we are doing. We are not going to stop.”
Then Villa better get recruiting.
Emery's starting line-up yesterday had one young player, Rogers. The rest 28-29+, several of those in their 30s.
Then Villa better get recruiting.
Emery's starting line-up yesterday had one young player, Rogers. The rest 28-29+, several of those in their 30s.
Tony Abrahams
95 Posted 21/05/2026 at 21:25:19
95 Posted 21/05/2026 at 21:25:19
I think a lot of the teams who win use a lot of experienced players, James. I'm not sure how many players Aston Villa were actually allowed to sign last summer though, because I'm sure they were close to their PSR limits.
They are a team who could probably beat anyone on their day, and are therefore not that far away, mate.
They are a team who could probably beat anyone on their day, and are therefore not that far away, mate.
James Flynn
96 Posted 21/05/2026 at 22:14:27
96 Posted 21/05/2026 at 22:14:27
Tony, I agree on experienced players. My context was Emery's statement that Steve Brown posted.
Easy to say. Much harder to do, when relying on a corps of aging first-team players. Just an anecdote, anyway.
I wish we could have signed that kid Morgan Rogers.
Easy to say. Much harder to do, when relying on a corps of aging first-team players. Just an anecdote, anyway.
I wish we could have signed that kid Morgan Rogers.
Nick Page
98 Posted 21/05/2026 at 23:23:11
98 Posted 21/05/2026 at 23:23:11
Nice to see you re-married, Paul. Shame you couldn’t keep the name. Who’s a liar? ;-)
John Maxwell
99 Posted 22/05/2026 at 02:11:22
99 Posted 22/05/2026 at 02:11:22
I just want to be alive when we win something again.
I'm 54 now.
I'm 54 now.
Steve Brown
100 Posted 22/05/2026 at 02:24:24
100 Posted 22/05/2026 at 02:24:24
James,
As Tony mentions, Aston Villa have had PSR issues for several years.
Their net spend in 2024-25 season was £21M and they actually made a profit of £15.4M in January.
I read this morning that Emery will be given £100M this summer due to the revenue generated by their win in the Europa League.
When he says "We are not going to stop", I assume he believes that Villa will invest that money wisely in good recruitment.
As Tony mentions, Aston Villa have had PSR issues for several years.
Their net spend in 2024-25 season was £21M and they actually made a profit of £15.4M in January.
I read this morning that Emery will be given £100M this summer due to the revenue generated by their win in the Europa League.
When he says "We are not going to stop", I assume he believes that Villa will invest that money wisely in good recruitment.
Paul Griffiths
101 Posted 22/05/2026 at 03:17:05
101 Posted 22/05/2026 at 03:17:05
Sigh, let's give it another shot:
While we're at it Mr. Page, can you name one - ONE - poster on here who thinks that 'Kenwright was the saviour'. Just one. Go on.
You can't can you? You just make stupid crap up, true to form.
While we're at it Mr. Page, can you name one - ONE - poster on here who thinks that 'Kenwright was the saviour'. Just one. Go on.
You can't can you? You just make stupid crap up, true to form.
Eric Myles
102 Posted 22/05/2026 at 05:06:03
102 Posted 22/05/2026 at 05:06:03
Paul #101, don't you remember the "Kenwright took a second mortgage out on his home to save us' posts of years gone by?
Can't name who posted them but I'll bet they're not going to put their hand up.
Can't name who posted them but I'll bet they're not going to put their hand up.
Paul Griffiths
103 Posted 22/05/2026 at 06:15:51
103 Posted 22/05/2026 at 06:15:51
Eric, the hagiography of what are in fact broken lies was evident so early on. I mean the mortgage lie, so easy to prove wrong, only a narcissist could do that. And the one after another EGM.
While I don't batter Moyes but have turned against him, I think that on TWEB now his staunch backers - Bennett and the boys - can be counted on the fingers of one hand.
While I don't batter Moyes but have turned against him, I think that on TWEB now his staunch backers - Bennett and the boys - can be counted on the fingers of one hand.
Tony Abrahams
104 Posted 22/05/2026 at 07:36:38
104 Posted 22/05/2026 at 07:36:38
It's funny you mentioned Ian, Paul, because for someone who recites a lot of stats to actually say that Moyes has got similar numbers to Emery was something I couldn't get my head around.
When you read Ian's posts, then when he is not trying to argue with people and just sticks to the football, then I think he has got a good knowledge of the game. But I Googled the most historical football clubs in Spain and I think Seville came in around sixth.
Villarreal never made the list for the Top 10 and I think it's fair to say that Aston Villa would also come in around fourth, fifth or sixth (very subjective -- it depends how you personally view historical) so for Emery to win the Europa League five times, with clubs historically on a par, or even below our own club historically, and then get compared to David Moyes, is one of the most ridiculously biased assessments I've ever read on these pages, if I'm being honest.
When you read Ian's posts, then when he is not trying to argue with people and just sticks to the football, then I think he has got a good knowledge of the game. But I Googled the most historical football clubs in Spain and I think Seville came in around sixth.
Villarreal never made the list for the Top 10 and I think it's fair to say that Aston Villa would also come in around fourth, fifth or sixth (very subjective -- it depends how you personally view historical) so for Emery to win the Europa League five times, with clubs historically on a par, or even below our own club historically, and then get compared to David Moyes, is one of the most ridiculously biased assessments I've ever read on these pages, if I'm being honest.
Ian Bennett
105 Posted 22/05/2026 at 16:46:18
105 Posted 22/05/2026 at 16:46:18
Whats your point, Tony?
I said Everton had a similar goals scored and goal difference to Villa, which dismissed that Emery plays free-flowing football.
I also said he did it with experienced players.
I am not clear what point you're making here, but I've said several times I rated him as a manager.
I said Everton had a similar goals scored and goal difference to Villa, which dismissed that Emery plays free-flowing football.
I also said he did it with experienced players.
I am not clear what point you're making here, but I've said several times I rated him as a manager.
Tony Abrahams
106 Posted 22/05/2026 at 21:18:41
106 Posted 22/05/2026 at 21:18:41
It looked to me that you were actually trying to compare David Moyes to Emery, stating that they have similar numbers, Ian.
One has won five Europa League trophies with three different clubs -- none of whom are bigger than Everton. And how could you not say you rate Emery, Ian, when it's clear he's a much better manager than David Moyes???
If you have watched Villa when they're on their game, I don't understand how you can say they don't play free-flowing football either, if I'm being honest, mate.
I've been watching Everton for over 50 years and, for the first time in my life, I have just renewed my season tickets reluctantly (very reluctantly, when I think about Jake O'Brien, playing full-back).
But if I woke up tomorrow and found out Everton had just appointed Emery as our manager, I wouldn't mind paying in advance.
So my point is that, for someone who loves using stats, when you look at what both of these managers have won, then it's crystal clear that they haven't got similar numbers, Ian.
One has won five Europa League trophies with three different clubs -- none of whom are bigger than Everton. And how could you not say you rate Emery, Ian, when it's clear he's a much better manager than David Moyes???
If you have watched Villa when they're on their game, I don't understand how you can say they don't play free-flowing football either, if I'm being honest, mate.
I've been watching Everton for over 50 years and, for the first time in my life, I have just renewed my season tickets reluctantly (very reluctantly, when I think about Jake O'Brien, playing full-back).
But if I woke up tomorrow and found out Everton had just appointed Emery as our manager, I wouldn't mind paying in advance.
So my point is that, for someone who loves using stats, when you look at what both of these managers have won, then it's crystal clear that they haven't got similar numbers, Ian.
Paul Griffiths
107 Posted 22/05/2026 at 22:43:24
107 Posted 22/05/2026 at 22:43:24
Villa's goal difference is better than us by 8. That is not 'similar'.
Villa have better players than us overall. Villa play better football than us. There might be one person on here who would prefer Moyes over Dick.
Villa have better players than us overall. Villa play better football than us. There might be one person on here who would prefer Moyes over Dick.
Ian Bennett
108 Posted 22/05/2026 at 23:02:45
108 Posted 22/05/2026 at 23:02:45
When I wrote the point, it wasn't dissimilar. Thanks.
Re-read what ive written about Emery, you'll learn a thing or two.
Re-read what ive written about Emery, you'll learn a thing or two.
Paul Griffiths
109 Posted 22/05/2026 at 23:16:51
109 Posted 22/05/2026 at 23:16:51
Ian Bennett @108,
'When I wrote the point, it wasn't dissimilar. Thanks.'
Bizarre response, Ian. So you're wrong now but somehow you were once, erm, 'right'.
'When I wrote the point, it wasn't dissimilar. Thanks.'
Bizarre response, Ian. So you're wrong now but somehow you were once, erm, 'right'.
Mike Gaynes
110 Posted 22/05/2026 at 01:22:16
110 Posted 22/05/2026 at 01:22:16
Tony #106,
Emery is a superb manager on every level, but I wouldn't say Villa play anything resembling free-flowing football. They move the ball quickly, adhere to Emery's system, and don't make mistakes with their passing or lose the ball in vulnerable positions.
They're sharp as hell but not dazzlingly creative. Emery himself describes it as "structure first, freedom second" and he was sacked at Arsenal because Edu didn't see enough style from him and brought in Arteta instead.
I compare Emery to Simeone, another manager who has won an amazing pile of silverware with a mostly no-superstars team. Atletico is likewise precise, quick and disciplined with the ball, often downright ugly in style but a club nobody wants to play in an important game.
Emery, Simeone, and I would say potentially Glasner, are all cut from that same cloth. None stylish, but all Cup winners.
Emery is a superb manager on every level, but I wouldn't say Villa play anything resembling free-flowing football. They move the ball quickly, adhere to Emery's system, and don't make mistakes with their passing or lose the ball in vulnerable positions.
They're sharp as hell but not dazzlingly creative. Emery himself describes it as "structure first, freedom second" and he was sacked at Arsenal because Edu didn't see enough style from him and brought in Arteta instead.
I compare Emery to Simeone, another manager who has won an amazing pile of silverware with a mostly no-superstars team. Atletico is likewise precise, quick and disciplined with the ball, often downright ugly in style but a club nobody wants to play in an important game.
Emery, Simeone, and I would say potentially Glasner, are all cut from that same cloth. None stylish, but all Cup winners.
Steve Brown
111 Posted 23/05/2026 at 02:35:50
111 Posted 23/05/2026 at 02:35:50
Emery and Moyes are not similar at all.
Emery plays quite a rigid formation with quick transitions, but his teams do dominate possession when needed through his central midfielders. He does like his wide attacking players to come inside and get numbers in the centre to run patterns of play.
Moyes is defensively solid (apart from the last 2 months!), but his team plays in vertical lines rather than possession-based build-up or patterns of play. And, of course, he loves a mid- to low-block.
There is also one other thing that separates them -- bottle.
Emery has 5 Europa Leagues, 1 French Ligue 1, 2 French Cups, 1 French League Cup. Emery gets his team ready for the big games and they take their opportunity.
Moyes shits the bed.
Emery plays quite a rigid formation with quick transitions, but his teams do dominate possession when needed through his central midfielders. He does like his wide attacking players to come inside and get numbers in the centre to run patterns of play.
Moyes is defensively solid (apart from the last 2 months!), but his team plays in vertical lines rather than possession-based build-up or patterns of play. And, of course, he loves a mid- to low-block.
There is also one other thing that separates them -- bottle.
Emery has 5 Europa Leagues, 1 French Ligue 1, 2 French Cups, 1 French League Cup. Emery gets his team ready for the big games and they take their opportunity.
Moyes shits the bed.
Steve Brown
112 Posted 23/05/2026 at 03:01:45
112 Posted 23/05/2026 at 03:01:45
Paul @ 109, I laughed at that one.
Start with “I don't like Moyes and didn't want him back, but… here's why he is doing a great job in the circumstances.” Then, throw in some random data points you found on Google that have no relevance to the reality of our performances or league position.
When challenged, pivot to “What, he is not doing well and the data proves the opposite of what I wrote? Despite how it looks, we are saying something similar so read my post again through the lens of me saying the same thing as you and coming to the opposite conclusion.”
Finally, add a sprinkle of “the players are not good enough”, a pinch of “hiring a new manager is risky, look at Franks” and 100 g of “not one of the young players must not be doing enough in training”. Wrap up by confirming that Moyes should stay.
In fairness, the thought pattern of Angus “Happily Dissatisfied” Kinnear is just as muddled. Logic departed the building a while ago, even if the building is a lovely new stadium.
Start with “I don't like Moyes and didn't want him back, but… here's why he is doing a great job in the circumstances.” Then, throw in some random data points you found on Google that have no relevance to the reality of our performances or league position.
When challenged, pivot to “What, he is not doing well and the data proves the opposite of what I wrote? Despite how it looks, we are saying something similar so read my post again through the lens of me saying the same thing as you and coming to the opposite conclusion.”
Finally, add a sprinkle of “the players are not good enough”, a pinch of “hiring a new manager is risky, look at Franks” and 100 g of “not one of the young players must not be doing enough in training”. Wrap up by confirming that Moyes should stay.
In fairness, the thought pattern of Angus “Happily Dissatisfied” Kinnear is just as muddled. Logic departed the building a while ago, even if the building is a lovely new stadium.
Tony Abrahams
113 Posted 23/05/2026 at 08:15:02
113 Posted 23/05/2026 at 08:15:02
It's probably me, Ian, reading you wrong, but that's what tends to happen when people keep reciting stats.
You helped me out the other day by putting Patterson's appearances up but sometimes I find that when people constantly try to use stats, it becomes a little bit boring, mate. (I did say that I think you have got a good knowledge of the game without using stats, Ian!) Just like I have found it boring and also frustrating watching Everton in quite a few of our games this season.
We all see a different game, with mine being that I find that most teams are playing a similar style of boring football, but when I watch Villa, they actually look like they do things for a reason.
I love the way that they have got players who don't panic when they have got possession in tight areas; this natural calmness under pressure looks like it has been drummed into them on the training ground.
You helped me out the other day by putting Patterson's appearances up but sometimes I find that when people constantly try to use stats, it becomes a little bit boring, mate. (I did say that I think you have got a good knowledge of the game without using stats, Ian!) Just like I have found it boring and also frustrating watching Everton in quite a few of our games this season.
We all see a different game, with mine being that I find that most teams are playing a similar style of boring football, but when I watch Villa, they actually look like they do things for a reason.
I love the way that they have got players who don't panic when they have got possession in tight areas; this natural calmness under pressure looks like it has been drummed into them on the training ground.
Ian Bennett
114 Posted 23/05/2026 at 08:15:27
114 Posted 23/05/2026 at 08:15:27
The point I was making was Emery was winning with experience, not youth.
He has had the benefit of stability of the club for longer. When they were investing in the squad, we were messing about trying to survive with 777 Partners.
Someone suggested that Emery played free-flowing football. The stats at the time were a plus 5 goal difference vs Everton after 34 games.
So yeah, I was right at the time.
He has had the benefit of stability of the club for longer. When they were investing in the squad, we were messing about trying to survive with 777 Partners.
Someone suggested that Emery played free-flowing football. The stats at the time were a plus 5 goal difference vs Everton after 34 games.
So yeah, I was right at the time.
Tony Abrahams
115 Posted 23/05/2026 at 08:21:41
115 Posted 23/05/2026 at 08:21:41
You were right, Ian, because stats obviously don't lie, mate.
I'm just reading Mike's post which looks like it's suggesting that Arsenal have picked style over pragmatic substance, replacing Arteta, with Emery!
Experience is vital... but so is having a manager who knows how to utilise his squad.
I'm just reading Mike's post which looks like it's suggesting that Arsenal have picked style over pragmatic substance, replacing Arteta, with Emery!
Experience is vital... but so is having a manager who knows how to utilise his squad.
Paul Griffiths
116 Posted 23/05/2026 at 08:28:11
116 Posted 23/05/2026 at 08:28:11
Plus 5 is certainly decent, Ian. Just say what we all know -- Villa are better than us; Emery is better than Moyes.
It's not that hard. It's logical. It's true.
It's not that hard. It's logical. It's true.
Ian Bennett
117 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:09:34
117 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:09:34
Paul, i now Emery is better than Moyes, and have posted as such previously.
#17 -- Posted 10/01/2026 at 09:38:46
Emery is about the only decent manager that has come through, and looks capable of moving the club forward and keeping them there in a very long time. He's done well in the market in Rogers, Duran, and Tielemans, but the core of the players were already there.
He is an exception rather than rule, and highlights that finding top quality is a real challenge. Chelsea, Man Utd are in the market, Man City, Tottenham, Newcastle perhaps will be sooner or later. If I was Man Utd, I'd be in for him. He's a bit of an odd fish, but I think he is a better bet than Glasnser.
Based on the clear pecking order of clubs, it highlights the odds are against Everton finding an Emery type to take us to the promised land.
We aren't a magical pull, and we are all chasing the same quality. That's the reality of elite competitive sport.
#17 -- Posted 10/01/2026 at 09:38:46
Emery is about the only decent manager that has come through, and looks capable of moving the club forward and keeping them there in a very long time. He's done well in the market in Rogers, Duran, and Tielemans, but the core of the players were already there.
He is an exception rather than rule, and highlights that finding top quality is a real challenge. Chelsea, Man Utd are in the market, Man City, Tottenham, Newcastle perhaps will be sooner or later. If I was Man Utd, I'd be in for him. He's a bit of an odd fish, but I think he is a better bet than Glasnser.
Based on the clear pecking order of clubs, it highlights the odds are against Everton finding an Emery type to take us to the promised land.
We aren't a magical pull, and we are all chasing the same quality. That's the reality of elite competitive sport.
John Collins
118 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:30:51
118 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:30:51
Ian,
How much of "a pull" were Villa when Emery signed? They had just finished 14th under Gerrard when they signed Emery.
That included "the core of players already there'.
How much of "a pull" were Villa when Emery signed? They had just finished 14th under Gerrard when they signed Emery.
That included "the core of players already there'.
Ian Bennett
119 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:39:56
119 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:39:56
A better one than Everton, John.
Paul Griffiths
120 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:41:05
120 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:41:05
Ian, come on, mate!
John Collins
121 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:58:28
121 Posted 23/05/2026 at 09:58:28
One that had finished 14th, Ian?
A similar finishing position to ours this season.
A similar finishing position to ours this season.
John Collins
122 Posted 23/05/2026 at 10:16:42
122 Posted 23/05/2026 at 10:16:42
Ian,
Can you post your thinking on why a Villa side who finished 14th would be a bigger pull than this current Everton side, who will finish in a similar position, please?
Can you post your thinking on why a Villa side who finished 14th would be a bigger pull than this current Everton side, who will finish in a similar position, please?
Don Alexander
123 Posted 23/05/2026 at 22:45:46
123 Posted 23/05/2026 at 22:45:46
It astounds me that anyone defends Moyes when compared to Emery.
Aston Villa, crucified as every other club is outside the so-called "Top 6"... (We, before Kenwright ruined us from Day 1, were one of the "Top 5" clubs that promulgated the inception of the Premier League in 1992; Liverpool, Man Utd, Spurs and Arsenal being the others.)
From memory, all four of them have from the outset been massively more successful than us in winning trophies.
The thoroughly non-competitive culture of our club way back then was installed by inept, greedy, avaricious owners devoid of football insight.
Freidkin has the chance to change things for his and our betterment, but will he this summer?
Freidkin's TW ambassador currently reports that Freidkin's personal wealth is now greater than Abramovich's and, while less than Arab owned clubs (Man City and Newcastle Utd), this allows me to fantasise that Freidkin has more than a hint of John Moores in him when it comes to developing a mega-club to win things to his and the fans' advantage.
By the way, if his TW ambassador is correct, does Freidkin purport to this past year having so massively increased his immense wealth alone or does he appoint talented underlings to largely do it, and bonus them with rewards beyond the imagination of all but "mere" Everton fans?
If it's the latter, I'm staggered by his apparent endurance of Moyes and his long moth-balled staff.
Aston Villa, crucified as every other club is outside the so-called "Top 6"... (We, before Kenwright ruined us from Day 1, were one of the "Top 5" clubs that promulgated the inception of the Premier League in 1992; Liverpool, Man Utd, Spurs and Arsenal being the others.)
From memory, all four of them have from the outset been massively more successful than us in winning trophies.
The thoroughly non-competitive culture of our club way back then was installed by inept, greedy, avaricious owners devoid of football insight.
Freidkin has the chance to change things for his and our betterment, but will he this summer?
Freidkin's TW ambassador currently reports that Freidkin's personal wealth is now greater than Abramovich's and, while less than Arab owned clubs (Man City and Newcastle Utd), this allows me to fantasise that Freidkin has more than a hint of John Moores in him when it comes to developing a mega-club to win things to his and the fans' advantage.
By the way, if his TW ambassador is correct, does Freidkin purport to this past year having so massively increased his immense wealth alone or does he appoint talented underlings to largely do it, and bonus them with rewards beyond the imagination of all but "mere" Everton fans?
If it's the latter, I'm staggered by his apparent endurance of Moyes and his long moth-balled staff.
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1 Posted 20/05/2026 at 19:18:17
Strange that about Ross Barkely not being registered for the squad...