Unai Emery was blunt after Aston Villa suffered a second straight Premier League defeat against Crystal Palace. The team have to get better as "a lot of challenges" await them in the next few weeks.
‘We’re trying to build a team’
Villa drew 0-0 with the Toon on opening matchday after going down to ten men. They then lost 1-0 to **Brentford**and have now lost an unbeaten home record that lasted just longer than a calendar year.
Emery expressed how this form is a phase that he thinks the team can pass through in a few weeks.
“This is our development and a consequence of how we are increasing our level and getting a better level as a team with the performance of the players, a lot of players in their national team.”
The manager reflected on the development of the side last year. They beat West Ham and **Leicester**2-1 in their third and first Premier League fixture of the season. However, problems plagued the camp, and they only truly started to hit their stride in March, so there is still time to make more improvements.
“Last year, we started with some problems, but we had six points out of nine. Now we have only one point, but we’ve only played three matches. We have to be motivated and excited after this break.”
It has been a tricky month for the Villans. They said goodbye to Birmingham boy Jacob Ramsey as he moved to Newcastle United, as well as Leander Dendoncker and Alex Moreno. Leon Bailey is now out on loan at Roma, and Emiliano Martinez, who missed the match, might soon sign for Man United.
“When they’re coming back, we’re going to work. We’re trying to build a team. I’m confident we’re going to come back from the moment we’re in now.”
The Basque believes that the loss of Bailey has placed a greater need on bringing in a right winger. He would also like more numbers to add to the depth of the squad. Deadline day is looming, but the desire is still strong as two of the cup competitions start to come into the picture after the international break.
*“We’re going to play Carabao Cup and Europa League. We have a lot of challenges to face this year.”*