Why Unai Emery has to bring back the “nightmare” of £130,000 per week for Aston Villa vs. Manchester City

This evening, Aston Villa hosts Manchester City at Villa Park in an attempt to continue their winning streak at home.

This time, Moussa Diaby merits a spot in the starting lineup.

After joining from Bayer Leverkusen this summer, Moussa Diaby has had an excellent start to life at Aston Villa.

In a £52 million transfer, he was bought by Unai Emery as a top target, with a deal worth £130,000 per week.

Last time out against Bournemouth, Villa fell behind twice during the game and were able to fight back both times.

First, Leon Bailey scored a rocket from the edge of the box after cutting in from the right-hand side, as he so often does.

The second came very late on thanks to a superb flick header by Ollie Watkins who latched on to a wonderful Diaby cross.

The Frenchman didn’t start the match because Nicolo Zaniolo was chosen, but he has to be replaced because of the loanee’s performance.

Nothing will sum up his time with the club thus far if this doesn’t.

He must sit the bench for a while and take his chances when they present themselves.

This gives room for someone to intervene and assume his position.

As he has been so frequently this campaign, Diaby must be that man.

He has been a “nightmare for defenders” and an electrifying attacker.

For most attacking numbers, he is in the top 20% according to his Fbref.

Looking at his non-penalty xG, assists and total shots he ranks nearly in the top 10% of all

attacking midfielders or wingers in Europe’s top five leagues.

His love of cutting inside and his fast speed both contribute to his straightforward demeanor.

He has had an excellent campaign so far, even though there have been moments when he could be more direct and get more shots off.

He scored a fantastic goal against Legia Warsaw and provided a great assist against Bournemouth.

He seems to be back in the groove, so maybe he can keep it up against Manchester City.

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