Aston Villa aims for Champions League progress against Monaco

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is focused on elevating his team's performance in the Champions League as they prepare to face AS Monaco, aiming for a top-eight finish. Emery has instilled a strong sense of confidence in his players, emphasizing the importance of competing vigorously in Europe, as the club has not participated in the Champions League for 42 years. With Villa sitting fifth in the standings and a chance to secure direct qualification for the knockout stage, the team is motivated to achieve their objective, needing just a few more points to solidify their position. Meanwhile, Monaco is also eager to bounce back from recent defeats, making this match crucial for both sides. Players like Youri Tielemans have been pivotal in Villa's recent successes, while Emery respects Monaco's competitive history and talent. The clash represents a significant opportunity for Villa to demonstrate their growth under Emery's leadership.