Lamare Bogarde has made it clear he sees his long-term future at Aston Villa after manager Unai Emery personally stepped in to block his summer exit.
The 21-year-old midfielder told Algemeen Dagblad that several clubs from England, Germany, and the Netherlands were interested in taking him on loan before Emery intervened — insisting that Bogarde would be an important part of his plans for the 2025/26 season.
It’s turned out to be the right call. The Dutch youth international has been one of Villa’s quiet success stories this term, filling in impressively for Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans during a run of strong performances that have helped Emery’s side recover from their early-season struggles.
Bogarde already has eight appearances and 378 minutes under his belt, rapidly closing in on last season’s totals of 18 games and 1,036 minutes. For a player who was once on the periphery, he’s now firmly part of the first-team picture — and his manager’s trust has been pivotal.
Unai Emery’s faith changed everything
“The manager came to me and said: ‘No, I don’t want you to leave. I have the feeling I’m going to need you this season.’” — Lamare Bogarde
Bogarde explained that he had just featured for the Dutch U21s against Israel when Emery called to recall him early from a short break. “He said: ‘I’m going to need you against Everton on Saturday,’” Bogarde recalled. “I had to act very quickly. It’s not in my mindset to be disappointed — I just want to play as much as possible.”
That determination has clearly impressed Emery, who is known for rewarding professionalism and tactical discipline. Bogarde has been rotated between holding midfield and the right of a double pivot, showing the kind of flexibility that fits perfectly with the Spaniard’s system.
Emerging into a key squad role
The youngster’s rise comes amid injuries and rotation in Villa’s midfield, but his contribution has gone far beyond simply filling gaps. Calm on the ball and efficient under pressure, Bogarde has offered balance and control, helping Villa sustain possession and press effectively in European fixtures.
| Stat (2025/26) | Lamare Bogarde |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 8 |
| Minutes Played | 378 |
| Pass Accuracy | 95% |
| Tackles per 90 | 0.7 |
source: Sofascore match data – 23 October 2025
His influence is steadily growing, with Emery often turning to him to stabilise games late on or to cover in European fixtures. Those appearances have given him valuable minutes and confidence — both of which he’s repaying with composed, assured performances.
Our View
In our view, Bogarde’s story highlights one of Emery’s greatest strengths: his ability to spot and nurture young talent within a demanding squad. While Villa have invested heavily in senior internationals, Emery’s willingness to trust Bogarde shows a balance between development and ambition that many clubs struggle to find.
At 21, Bogarde is still learning, but he already looks tactically aware and technically reliable. If his current trajectory continues, he could soon become the natural successor to Tielemans in Villa’s midfield rotation. Fans love that he speaks with humility — a player grateful for opportunity rather than demanding guarantees.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William writes:
I think Unai Emery has handled Bogarde perfectly — he’s not been overexposed, yet he’s been given enough responsibility to grow. His decision to block a loan move makes total sense in hindsight; Villa’s Europa League and Premier League schedules demand depth, and Bogarde provides it.
We believe the midfielder is now entering a phase where regular minutes could elevate him into the Netherlands senior conversation. His blend of discipline, athleticism and composure fits exactly the mould Emery loves.
Key Insights
- Lamare Bogarde confirms Unai Emery stopped a summer loan exit.
- 21-year-old has already played 378 minutes in 2025/26.
- Used mainly as a rotation midfielder covering Onana and Tielemans.
- Emery views Bogarde as key to squad depth and long-term plans.
- Player insists: “My future is definitely at Villa.”
What’s Next
Villa face Manchester City at Villa Park on 26 October, giving Emery another chance to rotate his midfield options.
With growing trust from the manager and a settled place in the squad, Bogarde’s focus is clear: keep improving, keep playing, and keep proving he belongs at the heart of Villa’s future.
👉 Should Unai Emery make Lamare Bogarde a permanent starter before the end of the season?
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