Unai Emery Reflects on Leon Goretzka Injury and Looks to Champions League to Lift Aston Villa

Unai Emery, manager of Aston Villa, is dealing with a major selection issue as his team prepares for an important Champions League match against Club Brugge. The Premier League side will be without Leon Goretzka, whose ongoing injury troubles have hit their midfield options hard.

Goretzka's Injury Is a Blow, Says Emery

Emery admits that Goretzka’s absence is a tough setback. The German midfielder joined Villa Park on a free transfer after a successful spell at Bayern Munich and was expected to bring experience to a reshaped midfield. Unfortunately, a reaction to more intense training has delayed his debut, forcing the squad to look for other solutions during a rough start in domestic matches.

"Goretzka’s issue is a bit frustrating, but we have players who can replace him. When he’s back, hopefully he can train consistently and add his experience. He will help us across competitions," Emery said ahead of their European fixture.

Goretzka Updates Fans on His Condition

The midfielder took to social media to explain that his body struggled to adjust to the higher training demands after limited playtime towards the end of his time in Germany. The injury will keep him sidelined at least until after the mid-September international break, ruling him out of upcoming matches.

"Unfortunately, my body reacted to the increased workload after some time away from the pitch. It’s frustrating, but I need this short break to come back strong. I'll use the days ahead, including the international break, to fully recover," Goretzka shared.

Champions League Return Offers a Chance for Revival

Aston Villa started the 2026-27 season poorly, with just one draw and two losses in their first three Premier League games. This struggle contrasts sharply with last season’s successes. Emery reflected on their progress, saying, "We showed some collective improvements in the last match. Our goal is the Premier League by the end of the season, and we are moving forward. Not enough yet because results aren’t good, but tomorrow brings a new test—in Europe."

He added, "Being in the Champions League is fantastic. How we got here—finishing fourth and winning in Europe—is something to be proud of. This is a new chapter, and when we started this project, our expectations were high, maybe not expecting four straight years in Europe, including two in the Champions League."

Upcoming Fixture Brings Its Own Challenges

Aston Villa travel to Belgium to face Club Brugge, aiming to overturn memories of a 1-0 loss in their last meeting in this competition in 2024. Emery will miss both Goretzka and Johan Manzambi due to injuries but gains the return of Joao Gomes after suspension.

Club Brugge come into the match in excellent form, having won four of their first five domestic games this season.

• Competition: Champions League
• Match: Club Brugge vs Aston Villa
• Date: 8 September 2026
• Time: 18:45