Unai Emery to take first Aston Villa training session today
New Villa boss Unai Emery was due to take training for the first time today after receiving his work permit.
The 50-year-old Spaniard arrived at Bodymoor Heath yesterday but had to wait for the final paperwork to be completed before starting work.
Emery has signed a four-and-a-half year contract, the longest Villa have ever given to a manager, after agreeing to succeed Steven Gerrard. Villa last week triggered his £5.2million release clause at Villareal and believe he is capable of fulfilling the ambitious long-term vision of billionaire owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens.
The four-time Europa League is bringing an large backroom team with him to the Midlands, including long-time assistants Pablo Villanueva and Antonio Rodriguez.
Rafa Benitez’s former Liverpool No.2 Pako Ayesteran has also been offered a role, with Javi Garcia expected to join as goalkeeper coach to replace Neil Cutler, who left the club on Monday.
Emery, who will be formally unveiled at a press conference later this week, will charge of the team for the first time when Manchester United visit Villa Park on Sunday.
