Aston Villa director Damian Vidagany has praised chairman Nassef Sawiris for his involvement in the club, explaining how its ownership structure has helped Unai Emery succeed.
The Spanish executive believes regular communication between Villa's football department and ownership allows Emery to concentrate on coaching.
He also revealed how the manager's difficult experience at Arsenal influenced the structure established at Villa Park.
Sawiris praised for hands-on leadership
Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS, Vidagany explained that he and director of football Roberto Olabe maintain close contact with Villa's owners.
Sawiris has been involved with the club since 2018 and remains closely engaged despite spending time abroad.
"We speak with him daily," Vidagany explained.
He contrasted Sawiris' commitment with his previous experience at Valencia under owner Peter Lim.
"Our owner understands it, feels it, lives it, and loves it," he said of Sawiris.
Vidagany believes that involvement, combined with the owners' willingness to trust their executives, has helped Villa progress.
Emery's Arsenal experience shaped Villa structure
In a separate interview with Mundo Deportivo, Vidagany explained why Emery wanted stronger organisational support when he arrived in Birmingham.
The manager had felt disconnected from Arsenal's ownership during his previous spell in north London.
"Having had the experience at Arsenal, where he felt somewhat isolated and disconnected from the club's ownership, he asked me to structure the non-technical aspects of the football operations," Vidagany explained.
That arrangement allows Emery to focus on coaching while executives oversee operational responsibilities and communication with the ownership group.
Vidagany has worked closely with Emery since their time together at Valencia and remains a central figure in Villa's football department.
Emery hailed as Aston Villa hero
Emery took charge in November 2022 and has overseen a remarkable transformation at Villa Park.
His achievements include guiding Villa to Europa League glory in 2025/26 and returning the club to the Champions League.
"He's a hero, almost a deity," Vidagany said.
The director believes Emery's demanding approach, combined with the club's supportive structure, has helped establish Villa among Europe's leading teams.
Key Points
- Vidagany praised Sawiris' involvement in Villa's football operations.
- Emery's Arsenal experience influenced the structure created at Villa.
- The manager is regarded as a hero by supporters.
What's Next?
Villa face Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday, with Emery looking to maintain their perfect start to the league phase.
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