Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has named Paris Saint-Germain as favorites for Wednesday's Super Cup in Salzburg, describing counterpart Luis Enrique as the best manager in football. Emery said that while ranking coaches is difficult, Luis Enrique's two Champions League titles make him the top manager right now.
The Spanish coach called the match a challenge and a test for Villa as the club attempts to build on recent growth. Emery explained that Villa is increasing its budget through strong performances on the pitch and successful player sales. He added that the Super Cup offers an opportunity to win a trophy and mark the start of a new era for the Birmingham club.
Villa is aiming to become the first Europa League winner to lift the Super Cup since Atletico Madrid in 2018. Emery said everyone at the club is working together to improve performance, strengthen the brand, and fulfill their ambitions.
Squad selection and player absences
Emery confirmed that Ollie Watkins, Ezri Konsa, and Emiliano 'Dibu' Martinez will miss Wednesday's match. He explained that the trio finished their season on July 19 and needed four weeks of rest, which was completely necessary. While their presence would have increased Villa's chances, Emery noted that PSG faces a similar situation.
Villa will welcome back Scottish player John McGinn and Argentine player Alejandro Garnacho. Emery said the team will rely on players who began pre-season training four weeks ago, along with several youth players, to compete with their own capabilities and try to win.
Super Cup record and transfer targets
The match offers Emery a chance to end a long winless streak in the tournament. The Basque coach lost in all three of his previous Super Cup appearances in 2014, 2015, and 2021. He highlighted that 6,000 supporters are traveling from Birmingham to Salzburg for the game, placing a heavy responsibility on the squad.
Emery also addressed transfer target Joao Palhinha, whom Villa is seeking to acquire from Bayern Munich. He said players can still leave during the final weeks of the transfer window, noting that Palhinha generates strong interest from many teams across football.
