Unai Emery is now preparing Aston Villa for UEFA Europa League football next season, with the help of Monchi – President of Football Operations at Villa Park.
Some Aston Villa fans will surely be devastated after missing out on UEFA Champions League football on the final day, although there should still be excitement over the UEFA Europa League, given the fact Emery has won the competition four times.
With preparations ongoing, there are doubts over Emiliano Martinez amid interest from Saudi Arabia, which has led Aston Villa to shortlist some goalkeepers, with Alex Remiro on the list – although comments from the glovesman suggest he has no plans to move.
Alex Remiro says Aston Villa interest “doesn’t change” his plans
Speaking to El Diario Vasco, the Real Sociedad No.1 said: “I know Barcelona and Aston Villa have been following me, but that doesn’t change my plans.
“Against Barcelona, for example, we had great matches. We beat them 1-0 at Anoeta. We haven’t played Aston Villa yet, but it’s not just these two teams anymore. All the clubs are keeping an eye on everything that’s happening.
“I think it’s good (the transfer links). It calms me down because it doesn’t upset my feelings, my emotions, or my daily life. I know what I’m capable of, what I’m not capable of, and what I want. It doesn’t do anything bad to me. It’s good that people notice you, but that’s it.”
Álex Remiro 🧤#UCL pic.twitter.com/DCSSB26Ki9
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 18, 2024
Remiro is certainly doing something right over in Spain, even receiving praise from Real Madrid No.1 Thibaut Courtois in 2020, who said: “He (Marc-Andre ter Stegen) is the best in the game with his feet, just like Real Sociedad’s Remiro, which surprised me.”
Mat Ryan, previously of Arsenal, also praised the 30-year-old, saying: “He’s one of these modern-style goalkeepers, very good with the ball at his feet. Very sound between the sticks as well.”
Aston Villa could have a free run at Alex Remiro after update from Barcelona
The Villans and Barcelona are sniffing around the same areas this summer, with both in need of a new goalkeeper.
¡Qué porterazo es Joan García! 🔝💙#LALIGAHighlights | @RCDEspanyol pic.twitter.com/LTdKNmjNOf
— LALIGA (@LaLiga) November 17, 2024
Aston Villa also shortlisted Joan Garcia of Espanyol – as did Newcastle – although TBR Football understand the Spaniard has now chosen to join Barcelona.
While that could be construed as a blow for Emery, it does mean there is one less competitor for Remiro, so if he changes his mind and looks to entertain a transfer this summer, Aston Villa could be in pole position.