Emery delighted with Villa progress as new signings begin to adapt

Unai Emery believes Aston Villa took an important step forward after securing a dramatic 3-2 Champions League victory over Club Brugge.

Villa came out on top in a five-goal contest in Belgium to make a winning start to their European campaign and provide Emery’s side with a welcome confidence boost after a winless start to the season.

“We took one step forward today and it was very, very important for our confidence and stability,” Emery said.

“All the players were giving to the team: John McGinn, Emiliano Buendía, Pau [Torres], Victor Lindelöf, and the young players as well like [George] Hemmings, who is new and progressively getting better and understanding everything we demand.

“So are Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Ian Maatsen, Boubacar Kamara. We must try to reach our highest standard, like we have in recent years, with the new players understanding the way.”