Unai Emery's PSG Return: A Chance at Redemption

Unai Emery is back at Paris Saint-Germain, but this time he's wearing the colors of Aston Villa. The Spanish coach is looking to exorcise the demons of the so-called 'La Remontada' and rewrite his history with the French giants.

Emery won seven trophies in two seasons with PSG between 2016 and 2018, but his tenure is still remembered for the 6-1 Champions League defeat to Barcelona in 2017. The 'La Remontada' will forever be etched in Emery's memory, but he has a chance to redeem himself with Villa in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Villa's players and supporters have every reason to believe in Emery's European pedigree. The Spaniard has guided Sevilla to three successive Europa League triumphs, and he also led Villarreal to a Champions League semi-final in 2022. Emery also took Arsenal to the Europa League final in 2019, and he has led Villa to seven consecutive victories in all competitions for the first time since 2019.

The tactical duel between Emery and PSG boss Luis Enrique will also play a key role in the outcome of the tie. Emery has a huge admiration for his counterpart, and he will be looking to outwit him on the touchline. The two bosses have faced each other a lot of times in the past, and this will be another fascinating battle between two of the best coaches in the world.

Villa's hopes will also rest on the ability of forward Marco Asensio, who is on loan from PSG. The 29-year-old Spain international has won La Liga and the Champions League on three occasions each with Real Madrid, and he will be looking to add to his collection of trophies with Villa. Asensio showed his quality with three goals over two legs as Villa beat Club Brugge 6-1 on aggregate in the last 16, and he will be a key player for Emery's side in the quarter-finals.

The atmosphere at Parc des Princes is sure to be electric, and this is a game that Villa will be desperate to win. The players and fans will be hoping that Emery can guide them to a famous victory and a place in the Champions League semi-finals. This is a chance for Emery to put his past behind him and write a new chapter in his career with Aston Villa.