A New Lease of Life at Aston Villa
John McGinn, the stalwart midfielder of Aston Villa, has found a new lease of life under the guidance of manager Unai Emery. When Emery arrived at Villa Park, McGinn’s reputation within the club was at an all-time low, with many inside and outside the club believing that his time had come to an end. However, Emery’s unwavering faith in McGinn has transformed his career, making him a pivotal player in the team. "He showed massive belief in me," McGinn said, reflecting on the Spaniard’s impact. "I’m so grateful for him, because at that time, my stock at Villa was at its lowest." Emery’s trust has not only rejuvenated McGinn’s playing career but has also seen him take on the armband, leading the team with a blend of experience and renewed confidence.
A Love-Hate Relationship Built on Trust
The relationship between McGinn and Emery is a unique blend of mutual respect and high expectations. "He said the other day that he hates me sometimes," McGinn joked. "I said that I hate him. We don’t. We’ve got a love-hate relationship." Emery is known for his demanding approach, and McGinn has embraced this with open arms. "He’s very hard on me, but I feel like I’m learning all the time," McGinn explained. "When he asks me to speak to the dressing room, he says [to be] calm and slow. He’s been amazing and hopefully, he’s here for many years to come." This relationship has not only improved McGinn’s performance on the pitch but has also solidified his role as a leader within the team.
From Hibernian to the Premier League
McGinn’s journey to Aston Villa is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. He joined Villa Park from Hibernian in 2018, stepping into a club that was then in the Championship under Steve Bruce. The transition was not easy, and McGinn recalled his initial nervousness. "I was really nervous," he admitted. "I came in in my Stan Smiths and G Star jeans. [There were] big characters, people I’d watched in the Premier League. All of these guys that had done so much in their careers, and I was thinking, ‘Wow, I’m at this level. Can I compete?’" Over the years, McGinn has evolved into a more composed player, with fewer yellow cards and a more strategic approach to the game. His progression is a reflection of his dedication and the guidance he has received from various managers, including Emery.
Villa’s Meteoric Rise
Aston Villa’s rise under Emery has been nothing short of spectacular. The club finished in the final automatic qualifying spot for the UEFA Champions League in the inaugural group stage table, following a 2023-24 campaign where they pipped Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Manchester United for a top-four finish. This season, Emery has led Villa in European competition for the second year in a row, having previously competed in the UEFA Europa Conference League. McGinn describes the club’s ascent as "nuts." "It’s been mental," he said. "I’ve been fortunate. A lot of people in their career always look for more. They look to jump up the levels and try and change club, but for me, the climb that Villa have had has been nuts."
Emery’s Ambition and Villa’s Future
Emery’s ambition is clear, and it resonates with the entire squad. "The manager says that he’s not here to waste time," McGinn said. "He always shouts that and it’s actually quite scary when he shouts it. ‘I’m not here to waste time, I’m not here to just make up the numbers, I’m here to be successful and win a trophy. I want to take the club to Europe.’" Emery’s track record, including four UEFA Europa League titles and a Ligue 1 crown, speaks volumes of his capability to achieve these goals. "He’s managed to do Europe for two years in a row, and he wants to sustain it," McGinn added. "It’s easy to forget how far we’ve come as a club and as a team. Sometimes you get used to it. He reminds us all the time how hard it was to get to that level and how hard it is to sustain it." The manager’s demanding approach is aimed at ensuring that Villa not only reaches these heights but also maintains them.
Strengthening the Squad for Glory
Villa’s ambition matches that of Emery’s, and the club has bolstered its squad with marquee signings in January. Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio arrived on loan from Manchester United and PSG respectively, while versatile forward Donyell Malen was purchased from Borussia Dortmund. McGinn believes that the current squad is the strongest Villa has ever assembled. "It’s probably the strongest squad we’ve ever had," he said. "The stature of Donyell, Marcus, and Marco – it’s good for the club. People want to play for Aston Villa and play in the latter stages of the Champions League. They want to compete at the top level, and we’re on our way." The challenge now is to integrate these new additions and sustain the club’s high standards. "It’s up to us to try and sustain that level. Hopefully, they enjoy it, more people want to come, and hopefully they’re not too good that I have to leave my own group chat."
