What's wrong with Aston Villa?

In this episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, host Ayo Akimwalehre and guests Stu James and Jacob Tanswell delve into Aston Villa's challenging recent performances and the team's standing in the Premier League. After a promising start, where Villa was level on points with Manchester City, they have fallen into a slump, recording back-to-back defeats against Wolves and Chelsea. While Villa remains in the top four, the mood surrounding the club has soured, with fans increasingly frustrated about the team's form and defensive vulnerabilities, leading to questions about Unai Emery's tactics.

Jacob shares insights about the team's alarming performance against Chelsea, underscoring the lack of defensive solidity that has characterized their recent games. The discussion turns to individual players, particularly Ollie Watkins, whose declining form raises concerns about his position in the England national team, especially with the World Cup on the horizon.

As the conversation shifts to the battle for Champions League spots, the hosts examine the significance of maintaining a competitive edge for clubs like Villa, highlighting the precarious situation they face in terms of finances and player retention if they fail to qualify. They explore the broader implications of recent league results and the potential for consistency as teams jostle for position.

The episode wraps up with an analysis of Chelsea’s resurgence and the importance of discipline in their quest for Champions League qualification, contrasting their performance with Villa's current state. The ongoing struggles within the club, player fatigue, injuries, and tactical missteps frame the conversation as crucial factors influencing their fate this season.