The spaces left open by Manchester United on the field were targetted by Aston Villa players, according to head coach, Unai Emery.
Emery was recently appointed as Steven Gerrard’s successor at Villa Park and he won what was his first game in charge of the club on Sunday afternoon.
Aston Villa’s first home @PremierLeague win over Manchester United since 19th August 1995.
The perfect start. ✅ @UnaiEmery_ pic.twitter.com/5zR0kVdCQL
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) November 6, 2022
Villa comfortably defeated United 3-1 thanks to goals from Leon Bailey, Lucas Digne and Jacob Ramsey.
Luke Shaw halved the advantage just before half-time but the hosts were leading by two goals again by the 50th minute.
Meanwhile, United were undefeated in nine fixtures prior to the unexpected loss this weekend.
What Emery Said
Emery, who inspired Villarreal to defeat United in the Europa League final in Gdansk in the 2020/21 season, was asked about his side’s performance after the game and he praised his players for their reaction in training to his appointment.
“I think the players showed us they were hungry, they were feeling good emotions, thinking about our match today [in training] and they did a very good job,” Emery said.
“They played in their positions and I want them to feel good playing with their characteristics and skills.
“The shape for me is not so important, but we tried to use the spaces where Manchester United maybe let us do our job.
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“Here at home, the supporters help the team a lot and the energy was amazing. They transmit to us and the response is playing in good spaces, with a good rhythm.
“I think the players feel so good at home and I want to use this result [as momentum].
United will meet Villa again in the Carabao Cup at Old Trafford on Thursday night.
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