Victor Lindelof has been speaking about his decision to join Aston Villa and his departure from Manchester United
Aston Villa's Victor Lindelöf
Aston Villa's Victor Lindelöf(Image: 2025 Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA)
View Image
Victor Lindelof won two trophies during his eight-year spell at Manchester United and admits that the opportunity to win more silverware was a factor in his decision to join Aston Villa.
Villa will be hoping to end a 30-year wait for a major trophy later this season, with the Europa League likely to be a key focus for Unai Emery as the campaign progresses. Emery has already won the competition on four separate occasions.
Lindelof's experience will be valuable for Villa. The 31-year-old is just three Premier League appearances away from reaching 200, and he has also earned 73 international caps for Sweden.
The defender left Man United at the end of last season following the expiration of his contract at Old Trafford. He turned down several offers - including from Saudi Arabia - before joining Villa on deadline day.
He has started three games under Emery, including Thursday night’s 2-1 win over BSC Young Boys. That match marked the first time he began at right centre-back, before shifting to left centre-back after Ezri Konsa replaced Pau Torres in the second half.
“Well I’ve been in the game for a long time, so I have no problem with that,” Lindelof said of waiting patiently to play in his best position. “I came in late as well and it takes time to get to know all the players and the system.
“I am just happy to be here and help in whatever way possible. If that is at right-back, centre midfield or centre half, it is up to the manager. I am happy to help.
“Every time I am on the pitch I am trying to do my best and help the team. In the end it is up to the manager to decide.
“If you want to be at a successful club you need good players in every position and you need that challenge. For me, it is just a positive we have the team performing well and players performing well.
“I have been in the game for a long time, so I know what it takes to be out there. If I don’t play every game, that is also fine for me. I just want to help. I am not getting any younger."
Lindelof waited for the right opportunity after leaving United, which ended his long association with the Red Devils.
He signed a two-year deal with Villa, with the option of a further 12 months.
“It was a good summer and it was nice to get a good holiday as well, maybe a bit longer than I expected,” he admitted. “I needed some time to think over what is best for me and the family and then speaking to the manager, he was telling me about his vision for the club.
“I have been in England for many years and the family are happy here. After I spoke to the manager I was quite happy.
“We just had a good talk about football generally. I am very interested in the game and I think the way he sees football as well, he sees it the same way. I wanted to try his project and be part of it as much as possible.
“I want to play at the highest level for as long as possible. This is a great, great club with great players. I think we have been performing great this season.
“We started slow but after that really stepped up. We just have to keep on going and try to fight for something at the end of the season. That is why you play football, to compete and try to win something.”
Asked how he looks back on his time at United, Lindelof said: “Obviously I spent many years there and it is a big part of my career and my life. I am very happy about that.
“I learned many things. We had many ups and downs but that is life. I am pleased with my time there and just look back with happy memories.”
Content cannot be displayed without consent
What do you make of Emery's comments? Tell us here