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Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has expressed confidence in his team’s determination to secure direct qualification for the Champions League last 16 ahead of their crucial match against Monaco on Tuesday. Villa, who are competing in Europe’s elite club competition for the first time in 42 years, are in a strong position to finish in the top eight, currently sitting fifth with 13 points from their group. With only two matches remaining in the group stage, Emery's side is highly motivated to continue their strong performance and advance directly to the knockout rounds. Monaco, their opponents in the upcoming match, are also eager to avoid the new knockout play-off round. Despite suffering back-to-back defeats in the Champions League, the French side is still in contention, sitting on 10 points, and will look to recover their form against Villa.
Both teams have everything to play for, as a victory would secure a spot in the last 16, while a loss could jeopardize their chances of progressing. For Villa, reaching the Champions League knockout stages would be a significant achievement, considering their long absence from the competition. Emery’s leadership has rejuvenated the team, and they are determined to make the most of this historic opportunity, with the game against Monaco being pivotal to their European aspirations.
"I think we are very motivated playing in the Champions League because the club didn't play in it for a long time. We want to compete, to compete trying to be a protagonist in this competition. We have a very huge opportunity arriving here to play day seven with 13 points. I think we need three or four more points to get the top eight. Our target is to be in the top eight and tomorrow is the key, " Emery told reporters.
Aston Villa have kicked off 2025 in impressive fashion, securing three consecutive wins in all competitions before earning a resilient draw against Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday. The team’s fightback at the Emirates was sparked by former Monaco midfielder Youri Tielemans, who scored Villa’s first goal to level the match. Tielemans, who has been a key figure for Villa this season, has started every Premier League and Champions League game so far. After a period of adjustment to life at Villa Park last season, the Belgian international has settled in well, showing his quality and influence in midfield. His contribution against Arsenal is just one example of the impact he’s had this season, and his form is crucial for Villa as they look to continue their push for European football.
Villa’s recent performances underline the growing confidence within the squad, as they now set their sights on securing qualification for the Champions League knockout rounds. Emery's side will be hoping to carry this momentum into their upcoming matches, with Tielemans' growing influence in the middle of the park a central part of their plans for the remainder of the campaign.
"He's always ready to play, he's always focusing each match and competing in his thoughts 100 percent to improve and help the team to follow our message," Emery said of Tielemans.