Emery: Winning is always the top priority when playing at home against Everton

Another key match in the 22nd round of the 2025/26 Premier League season will take place, with Aston Villa hosting Everton. Unai Emery stated that his team will continue to strive for a higher position in the standings, and their primary objective is to secure three points.

After a run of 3 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss in their last 5 matches, Aston Villa currently sits in 3rd place in the league table with 43 points. In addition, thanks to goals from Buendia and Morgan Rodgers, Aston Villa defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 in the earlier FA Cup match, successfully advancing to the next round.

As for Everton, managed by Moyes, the Toffees drew 1-1 with Wolves in the last round of the Premier League, and were eliminated by Sunderland in the FA Cup after a penalty shootout.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery said, "We're only talking about the three points, and we have to focus on the game we're playing, both individually and as a team. We don't feel any extra pressure, we just know clearly that we need the three points. Maybe we can set a new target for a home winning streak, but the priority is always winning. If we keep winning, then the goal of a 12-game home winning streak will naturally be achieved."

"However, our mindset is to focus on every game, on where we are and the competition we face, and to get the points we need to stay in the top of the Premier League."

Speaking about Everton, Emery said, "Everton are very good away from home and very competitive. The team is currently facing some challenges, such as two players participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. There are also some players who may be out due to injury or suspension, but I think their overall competitiveness remains very good, and they have always been a difficult team to beat."

“We respect their situation, as we also have our own difficulties with player absences. The key is how we maintain consistency, and how we continue to maintain that consistency at Villa Park and get 3 points, that's our goal.”

Furthermore, Emery stated, "After 10 days without playing a Premier League match, our full focus is on this game. We must constantly remind ourselves of the importance of this competition; it is our top priority. We are currently third in the standings, competing for a top spot in the Premier League, and we must set higher standards for ourselves to maintain this position in the coming months."

"There are many teams behind us and they have the ability to overtake us, but as of the 22nd round of matches, we are still in this position."