Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has warned his players they must be more demanding of themselves after a defeat to Barcelona ended the club's perfect start to the Champions League campaign. The loss on November 4, 2026, marked Villa's first setback in the competition this season.
Emery's side had won all their previous Champions League matches before facing the Spanish giants. The Barcelona match served as a reality check for the Premier League club, highlighting the gap between their current level and Europe's elite.
The Spanish coach emphasized the need for higher standards as Villa continue their European journey. The defeat leaves Aston Villa with work to do in the remaining group stage fixtures to secure progression to the knockout rounds.
