In the words of Unai Emery,, it has been a "poor" start to the season. Villa went down to ten men on opening matchday and scraped a 0-0 draw against Newcastle United before losing to **Brentford**1-0. However, the Frenchman does not believe that now is the right time to start panicking about results.
‘We have to stay calm’
After this week, there are 35 Premier League matchdays to go. Digne does not feel a need to worry.
“It’s just the beginning of the season, and we have to stay calm and positive. We have to work hard because the work always pays off, and I’m sure we have the team. The performances will come.”
The schedule does not get any easier. Crystal Palace are unbeaten in their last four meetings with the Villans, beating them 3-0 at **Wembley Stadium**in the **FA Cup**semi-final and 11-3 on aggregate over their previous three Premier League matches. Digne declared his faith in the club's home record.
They have remained unbeaten at Villa Park since a 2-0 loss to **Arsenal**in August last year.
“At home, we know how we can play and how we can be strong. We have to show that. We have to stay calm and trust in our process and in our work because we are working really hard here.”
That form highlights the quality in the camp, and the fullback feels that self-belief is important.
“We have a good team. It’s just a question of time.
Tough times do not last, but tough people do, and Digne is in a bright moment in his career.
“It could be better with some wins, but it’s a good moment.”
The 32-year-old fell out with Rafa Benitez at Everton, relocating to the Midlands. After 136 official appearances, he signed a new deal with the Villans this summer, keeping him on the books until 2028.
“During the summer was the time to reflect because I had one year left on my contract. My priority was always to stay here because I feel the club is growing very fast and going in a good direction.”
The Toffees are on the up with David Moyes, but Digne got the better end of the deal. He has enjoyed a top four finish and three consecutive continental campaigns with Villa. Happy with his life in the squad, he hopes that the manager can engineer his fifth and the team's first Europa League title.
“We are playing in Europe for three years in a row now, and it’s amazing to be here and play for this club. I’m just so happy to extend my contract here.”