Aston Villa Champions League 2025 hopes are alive and well, but former player Dean Saunders has voiced strong concerns about how Unai Emery handled Ollie Watkins last season.
Villa sealed a stunning top-four finish under Emery, but Saunders told EPL Index that one key call could have caused serious dressing room tension:
“I would’ve been raging if I were Watkins. You don’t bench your top scorer in massive games,” — Dean Saunders, former Aston Villa striker
The flashpoint? Emery opting for Marcus Rashford over Watkins during key late-season fixtures. Despite Watkins scoring 21 league goals, he was benched in crucial moments, a move that surprised many fans and pundits alike.
Striker Depth an Urgent Issue for Emery
With Jhon Duran now departed and Rashford back at Manchester United, Villa's attacking depth looks thin ahead of a demanding Champions League campaign.
Right now, Emery only has Donyell Malen and Watkins as senior centre-forwards. Saunders issued a clear warning:
“If Villa want to compete across four competitions, they can’t gamble on just one fit striker.”
Aston Villa have been linked with Dominic Calvert-Lewin, but concerns remain over his injury record. The Everton striker has struggled with consistency and fitness — not ideal for a squad facing a potential 60-game season.
| Player | 2024/25 Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ollie Watkins | 38 | 21 | 7 |
| Donyell Malen | 31 | 10 | 4 |
| Dominic Calvert-Lewin | 24 | 6 | 2 |
Mentality Is Key for New Arrivals
Saunders believes any incoming striker must arrive with the belief they can challenge Watkins, not simply accept a backup role.
“If you join Villa this summer, you’ve got to back yourself. That’s the mentality Emery wants.”
This speaks volumes about the competitive culture Emery is building — and why squad harmony will be vital if Villa want to avoid a post-Champions League slump.
Analyst Verdict
Emery’s tactical brilliance got Villa into Europe — but now comes the harder part. A top-level striker is no longer optional. If Watkins is sidelined again, the drop-off in quality is too steep.
Key Insights
- Aston Villa Champions League 2025 campaign demands more firepower
- Dean Saunders questions Emery’s faith in Ollie Watkins
- Calvert-Lewin targeted, but injury doubts remain
- Squad depth and mentality will define Villa’s season
What’s Next for Villa?
With the transfer window heating up, all eyes are on Johan Lange and Unai Emery to land another forward. A Champions League return is a moment to savour — but only if Villa can reinforce the squad properly.
Do you think Emery was right to bench Watkins last season?
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