Aston Villa’s Champions League hopes are under real threat after a third consecutive Premier League defeat, as their early-season title push continues to unravel.
It was a laboured display from Villa as Unai Emery’s side failed to capitalise on Thursday’s Europa League win over Lille. Furthermore, this has been a mixed season for Aston Villa. They started the campaign in tremendous fashion and were seen as genuine title contenders. However, they are now without a Premier League win since the 11th of February.
There are several key factors why Villa have been struggling so much since the start of 2026. The relentless schedule is starting to affect the players, with Unai Emery unwilling to rotate his squad, and the Thursday/Sunday European schedule has directly impacted Villa this season. Additionally, Ollie Watkins’ form has dropped, with the Englishman at 8 goals for the season. However, last season Watkins finished with 16 goals.
Villa currently sit fourth in the Premier League, but Liverpool and Chelsea are close behind and have significantly better goal differences. Emery’s side will be desperate to respond in their next match against West Ham.
Europa League offers hope to Unai Emery
Despite their struggling Premier League form, the Europa League offers hope to Unai Emery and his team. The Spaniard is a master of the competition, having won it four times. Currently, his side are in the last 16 and hold a 1-0 advantage over Lille with the return leg at Villa Park, making them heavy favourites to advance. If Aston Villa advance on Thursday, they will face the winner of the Porto vs Stuttgart match.
In contrast to their Premier League form, Emery has guided his side to a successful campaign so far with only one defeat in the competition. Meanwhile, away victories in Lille, Basel, and Istanbul highlight how dominant they have been this season. The Europa League gives Emery and Aston Villa a second chance to secure Champions League qualification, putting their fate firmly in their own hands.
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