"All this comes before a return to the Europa League and Thursday's visit of Serie A side Bologna. Yet Emery remains unbowed and focused even if Olabe's appointment suggests a shift in thinking at Villa Park. If Monchi may have been about the here and now - his approach took Villa back to the Champions League - then former Real Sociedad sporting director Olabe is a longer-term appointment."
"Villa staff found out on Monday before the news broke and there is an expectation internally there will be a instant synergy as Villa look to adjust and move forward. After what can be viewed as a turbulent start to the season, that harmony would be welcomed. Monchi's departure is not linked to Emery's future, short or long term. They did not come as a pair, despite being successful at Sevilla, and Monchi was second choice behind Mateu Alemany, who was Barcelona's football director."
Aston Villa began the season winless in the Premier League, prompting manager Unai Emery to describe his players as 'lazy'. President of football operations Monchi left the club and was replaced by Roberto Olabe, an appointment that signals a longer-term sporting strategy. Olabe and Emery share Basque roots and a prior working relationship at Almeria and Real Union, fostering expectations of quick synergy at Villa Park. Monchi's departure was driven by fatigue and a desire for a new challenge and is not linked to Emery's future. Emery had significant input on Olabe's appointment and retains strong influence over club decisions. Villa prepare for a Europa League return against Bologna.
Read at www.bbc.com
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