The Missing Links 2026: What Aston Villa’s Rebuilt Squad Still Needs

Writer Chris Budd analyzes Aston Villa's positional rebuild under manager Unai Emery following significant squad turnover. Budd argues that while the club has acquired sufficient individual talent, the team currently lacks tactical cohesion across several key areas. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has made a strong early impression replacing Emiliano Martínez, but the defense is dealing with the absence of Ezri Konsa alongside injuries to left-backs Ian Maatsen and Matteo Ruggeri.

Budd notes that Villa's midfield face challenges following Amadou Onana's long-term ACL injury and the departure of Youri Tielemans, while new signing Leon Goretzka has yet to debut. In attack, striker Nicolas Jackson has arrived to replace the departed Ollie Watkins, supported by new additions including Johan Manzambi, Ibrahim Mbaye, and Alejandro Garnacho.