Aston Villa squad analysis: Who are Unai Emery's long-term building blocks?

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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · Claret Villans ↗

Unai Emery is reportedly close to agreeing a new contract at Aston Villa, indicating the club's direction for the next few years. The news is seen as positive by fans and suggests Emery will be locked into Villa's project beyond 2029. With Emery's potential long-term commitment, the club is assessing its current squad and building blocks for the coming seasons. The analysis focuses on senior players under contract through at least 2029.

Aston Villa's squad has some positions with clear long-term options, such as goalkeeper with Suzuki under contract through 2031, and left back with Maatsen and Ruggeri having long-term deals. In contrast, the centre back position is precarious due to Pau Torres potentially returning to Villarreal in 2028 and Tyrone Mings likely being released. Victor Lindelof may get an extension, but his age could limit the contract duration.

The club needs to plan for the future at certain positions, such as centre back, where Pau Torres and Tyrone Mings may not be available beyond 2028. In midfield, key players like John McGinn and Emi Buendia have contracts expiring in the near future, potentially requiring replacements or renewals. The forward position is considered strong with Jackson and Madjo, while Abraham's contract is seen as potentially being a liability due to his possible departure.