Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has praised his team’s mentality and intensity after their hard-fought 2–1 Premier League victory over Arsenal at Villa Park on Saturday.

The clash saw Matty Cash and Leandro Trossard both on the scoresheet, before Emi Buendia snatched a dramatic late winner — sealing a memorable night for the Villans and condemning Arsenal to a painful defeat.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Emery beamed with pride as he reflected on a performance he felt truly embodied the spirit and ambition of his squad.

“I’m so happy. We finished this week really playing like we need to – competing, demanding things from ourselves, adapting to our opponents and playing with personality,” he said.

The former Arsenal boss highlighted his side’s aggressive approach and desire to dominate key phases of play.

“We are dominating sometimes and getting in the box, we are being intense and aggressive when needed,” Emery added.

He also reserved special praise for the home fans, who he believes helped push the team over the line.

“Villa Park is special, the supporters transmit the energy to us. How they responded is fantastic.”

Emery emphasised that despite the big win, focus will remain sharp and grounded.

“We are going to focus game by game… The Premier League is our first priority.”

Opinion: Aston Villa Are Not Just Winning Games — They’re Making a Statement

There’s something special brewing in Birmingham.

Villa are no longer playing like underdogs trying to survive — they’re playing like a team that belongs at the top of the Premier League table. Under Emery, this is not a one-off upset; it’s becoming a habit.

📌 They press with courage
📌 They defend with intelligence
📌 They attack with purpose

And most importantly — they believe.

Villa Park has turned into one of the toughest venues in England, a fortress where even title contenders like Arsenal can be made to look uncomfortable. When the fans and players unite the way they did on Saturday, the atmosphere becomes electric — the kind that opponents fear.

Emery’s project is no longer a fairytale story.
It looks like a serious Premier League threat.

If Aston Villa keep this momentum, they won’t just be aiming for European football…
They’ll be knocking on the door of the elite — loudly.