'Unai Emery is one of the best managers in the world'

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Fabian Hurzeler is full of admiration for the Villa boss ahead of today's game at the Amex

Nick Szczepanik

2026-08-23T06:00+01:00

Fabian Hurzeler chats with Villa head coach Unai Emery before kick-off at Villa Park earlier this year. 📷James Boardman

Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler has described Aston Villa manager Unai Emery as “one of the best managers in the world” ahead of today’s meeting at the Amex.

And he believes that Emery and Villa have blazed a trail in coping with the demands of the Thursday-Sunday-Thursday schedule involved in European football beyond the Champions League.

The Albion boss had his first experience of European competition on Thursday in the goalless draw away to Tromso in Norway in the first leg of our UEFA Conference League qualifying play-off.

Emery, in contrast, has won the Europa League five times, most recently with Villa last season.

“I see him [Emery] as one of the best managers in the world,” Hurzeler said ahead of today’s game.

Prior to facing Aston Villa this weekend, Fabian Hurzeler has spoken to the media.

“He achieves great things and he and his team can be a role model for us regarding managing the Premier League and European competition.

“That is definitely something we have to get used to.

“He knows my appreciation for him and let's see how Sunday goes.”

Emery was one of the first managers to offer the Albion head coach his support when the team hit a rough patch last season. “He has a huge future as a coach. I respect him a lot and I really like how they're playing,” said Emery.

Both bosses have had to bid farewell to key players this summer, with Villa losing three of the team that won the Europa League – Lucas Digne, Morgan Rogers and Youri Tielemans, with more outgoings likely.

Hurzeler feels the two clubs are victims of their own success.

“In football we all have to understand that it's normal if you're successful as a team, then the individual can shine,” he added.

“Then, of course, there will be a big ask for players. It was clear for everyone that this might happen during a busy transfer window.

“It happens not only in our club, it happens in several clubs.

“Villa have made great achievements in the last seasons and that means a lot of attention on their players.”