Asensio and Rashford Adjusting Well to Villa’s System, Says Manager Unai Emery
Aston Villa's latest attacking recruits, Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford, are rapidly adapting to the team’s playing style and gaining confidence, according to manager Unai Emery. The duo played a key role in Villa’s 2-0 victory over Cardiff City, securing a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Rashford, who is on loan from Manchester United, assisted his fellow January signing Asensio—loaned from Paris Saint-Germain—for the opening goal at Villa Park on Friday. This was not the first time they combined effectively, as Rashford had also provided the assists for both of Asensio’s goals in last weekend’s dramatic 2-1 Premier League victory over Chelsea.
After the win over Cardiff, Emery praised their performances and how seamlessly they were integrating into Villa's tactical setup.
"They’re Adapting Well and Growing in Confidence"
Speaking to reporters, Emery highlighted how both Asensio and Rashford were fitting into the team’s system.
"They are adapting well to our structure,"he said. "They have a lot of individual qualities that complement the way we play. Their contributions—whether through goals or assists—are helping us, and they’re becoming more comfortable within the team.”
The Spanish manager emphasized that their growing confidence was evident with each passing game.
"Confidence is key. When players feel comfortable and are performing well, the team as a whole benefits. Every player in the squad is working hard to contribute to our system, making us as strong as possible. Marco and Marcus are both doing exactly that, and it’s great to see."
Villa’s progression to the FA Cup quarter-finals marks a significant moment for the club, as it is the first time in a decade that they have reached this stage of the competition. However, Emery was quick to play down any suggestion that his side were now favorites to lift the trophy.
Aston Villa Focused but Cautious About FA Cup Expectations
Despite their impressive run, Emery remains cautious about labeling Aston Villa as the frontrunners in the competition. With Manchester City, Manchester United, and Newcastle United still in contention, he acknowledged that there is still a long road ahead.
"We understand that the FA Cup presents a real opportunity for a trophy, a trip to Wembley, and even a potential route into the Europa League," Emery explained. "It’s a prestigious tournament, and we know how much it means to the club and our supporters. The fans are excited, and we share that motivation. However, we must stay grounded and take things one step at a time."
Villa’s strong performances in both the league and domestic cup competitions have been a testament to Emery’s tactical discipline and the squad's depth. The team’s ability to balance multiple competitions will now be tested further as they prepare for European action in the coming days.
Champions League Knockout Stage Awaits
While their FA Cup journey continues, Aston Villa must now turn their attention to an important European clash. The club is set to travel to Belgium for their Champions League Round of 16 first-leg encounter against Club Brugge on Tuesday.
For Villa, who have shown significant progress under Emery’s guidance, this fixture represents another opportunity to prove their credentials on the continental stage. The manager will be hoping that Asensio and Rashford’s growing chemistry can play a decisive role in their European campaign as well.
Villa fans will be eager to see whether their recent momentum in domestic competitions can translate to success in Europe, and Emery remains confident that his squad is prepared for the challenge ahead.
With a crucial stretch of matches on the horizon, the continued impact of Rashford and Asensio could be vital in determining Villa’s success across multiple fronts. Their quick adaptation, goal contributions, and link-up play have already given the team a significant boost, and if they maintain this level of performance, Aston Villa could be in for an exciting end to the season.
With a crucial stretch of matches on the horizon, the continued impact of Rashford and Asensio could be vital in determining Villa’s success across multiple fronts. Their quick adaptation, goal contributions, and link-up play have already given the team a significant boost, and if they maintain this level of performance, Aston Villa could be in for an exciting end to the season.
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