Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag expects a “tough” test against Aston Villa following the appointment of Unai Emery, who takes command for the first time on Sunday.
After a previous stint with Arsenal, the Spaniard returns to the Premier League after rebuilding his reputation with Villarreal, where he won the Europa League against United in 2020-21.
Villa need to make an immediate impact after being thrashed 4-0 by Newcastle United last time out and having won just one of their last six Premier League games.
United, meanwhile, have won back-to-back 1-0 matches against West Ham and Real Sociedad but will need to make changes due to their hectic schedule, with Ten Hag considering his defensive alternatives.
Erik Ten Hag’s comment ahead of Villa’s game
“I have to see because Aston Villa is going to be a difficult one as we don’t know. They have a new manager and I have to have a look and analyse from that game, from that team and then we have a choice,” he said.
“But Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof played really well together over some more games. I also think Licha [Martinez] and Harry [Maguire] last Sunday against West Ham United kept a clean sheet and also did really well.
“So that’s a choice we have to make. When I choose one, it is not one thing against the other.”
Due to Bruno Fernandes’ suspension after receiving five yellow cards in the Premier League, one sure change will occur in midfield.
‘We know that we have to replace Bruno. That is quite clear,” Ten Hag added.
“We have to see how we replace him and we have to think about that and it is short, so soon after this [Real Sociedad] game. I have one night to think about that.”
Ten Hag was doubtful whether United’s offensive trio of Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Anthony Martial would be available for this weekend’s game in Spain, so the club traveled without them.
“It’s difficult to say in this moment,” he said. “I have to talk with the medical and the performance team as they did a programme in Manchester.
“I have to hear how their progress was and if they can be available for Sunday’s match.”
