Emi Buendia explains why he chose Aston Villa over Arsenal

Emi Buendia Aston Villa transfer over Arsenal in 2021 was one of the summer’s big talking points — and now the Argentine has opened up on exactly why he made that call.

Now 28, Buendía joined Villa in a then-club record move after a standout season with Norwich City. But before completing the deal, he came very close to signing for Arsenal. Speaking about the decision four years on, Buendía revealed it came down to one key factor: being trusted as a leading figure in a club’s long-term plan.

The move was part of Aston Villa’s £90m rebuild following the £100m sale of Jack Grealish to Manchester City. Buendía arrived alongside Leon Bailey and Danny Ings as the club looked to reshape their attack around a more balanced, multi-threat approach.

Buendía’s time at Villa Park has had moments of brilliance — but also major setbacks. Just as he was hitting form under Unai Emery, disaster struck. A serious ACL injury in pre-season ruled him out of the entire 2023/24 campaign.

After recovering, he spent the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Bayer Leverkusen, making 14 appearances. However, the German side opted not to activate their £17m option to buy.

His future is now uncertain, with a permanent Villa return under review as Emery continues reshaping his squad for European football.

Reflecting on his decision to turn down Arsenal, Buendía said the opportunity to feel "important in an important project" was decisive. While Arsenal’s interest was serious, Villa's direct approach and ambition made a lasting impression.

He also credited the club’s belief in their European potential, even in the early days post-Grealish. Despite a rocky managerial period, Buendía believes the current project under Unai Emery reflects the vision that attracted him in the first place.

Buendía’s decision to join Aston Villa over Arsenal may have raised eyebrows in 2021, but his reasoning has proved sound. Villa's progress under Emery has vindicated the belief he had in the club’s project. If he stays fit, he still has the creativity and intelligence to play a key role in Villa’s next chapter — or offer value elsewhere in the Premier League.

With Leverkusen passing up their permanent option, Buendía's next move depends on whether Emery sees him in Villa’s European push. He may get a fresh pre-season chance — or could attract bids from mid-table Premier League sides looking for an experienced playmaker.

Should Villa give Buendía one last shot — or cash in this summer?