Unai Emery Labels PSG Favorites Ahead of UEFA Super Cup Clash with Aston Villa

Aston Villa's manager, Unai Emery, is managing expectations before their UEFA Super Cup match against Paris Saint-Germain. He openly recognizes the Champions League winners as the favorites for Wednesday's game in Salzburg. Villa will be making their first appearance in this event since 1982 after their impressive Europa League victory last season.

Emery Highlights PSG's Edge

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Emery made it clear that the spotlight will be on PSG. He wants his squad to accept that they face a tough challenge against a team with far greater resources and recent success.

"We are going to try to get the message across to the dressing room, preparing for the match knowing that they feel like favorites. Because of course they are," Emery said.

He also reflected on a previous encounter two years ago during the Champions League quarter-finals where despite losing, Villa showed they could compete against the French giants.

Squad Challenges for Villa

Villa’s preparation has been disrupted by the absence of key players such as Emi Martinez, Ezri Konsa, and Ollie Watkins, who have not traveled to Salzburg due to international commitments over the summer.

"They finished the season on July 19 and I have given them four weeks of vacation, I think it is completely necessary," Emery explained, defending his decision to rest his players.

Adding to the concerns is the injury to summer signing Manzambi, leaving the squad depth tested. Still, the club has gained financially from qualifying for the Super Cup, which might help with transfer market moves. Emery mentioned interest in Joao Palhinha but kept details vague, saying, "In the last weeks of the market, players can move. I don't talk about specific players, but we all know Palhinha."

PSG Manager Faces His Own Worries

Luis Enrique, in charge of PSG, has voiced frustration over his squad's readiness. The late return of many stars following the World Cup has caused a fragmented preseason.

"I do not have players. Some players returned on Monday, and others returned last week," Enrique said.

The lack of consistent minutes for some players leaves him unsure about their stamina for the full match. He admitted last season was exceptional and this season is shaping up similarly, making player management tricky.

High Stakes in Salzburg

This match is a significant test for both teams. For Villa, it's an opportunity to prove their Europa League triumph wasn't a fluke and that they can stand alongside Europe’s best.

"We prepare for the match with the players we started with four weeks ago, also with the young players," Emery remarked, showing confidence in his squad's hunger and momentum.

Despite his squad problems, Enrique respects the challenge ahead and the prestige of the trophy. He noted, "It is important for every team to win a European title, and we will see what kind of match the two teams can produce tomorrow."

• Event: UEFA Super Cup
• Date: 12 August 2026
• Time: 21:00
• Teams: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) vs Aston Villa (AVL)
• Location: Salzburg