A mere under three months ago, Aston Villa were winless and languishing in the relegation zone of the Premier League.
Now, however, driven by manager Unai Emery, they occupy a top-three spot with growing discussion surrounding their involvement in the championship chase.
The weekend's dramatic finale against table-toppers Arsenal highlighted their capabilities, with the 2-1 victory marking Emery's 63rd Premier League win – the most in the team's annals.
From his 162 games in charge, Emery holds a win rate of 54.94%.
Additionally, in the 2025 campaign, only Arsenal and Manchester City have gathered more points (71) than Villa's total of 67 from 34 fixtures.
This change is especially remarkable given the team's start to the season, which saw them struggling, eliminated of the Carabao Cup, and the final team in the Football League to net a goal.
Questions were raised about Emery's approach after a close-season where spending power was restricted by financial rules.
What exactly has Emery altered to ignite this revival? The simple answer is nothing.
The workaholic Spaniard has shown the conviction to adhere to his beliefs and navigate his team through early-season problems.
It was clear that the club was lacking energy, not just in terms of results. The meteoric trajectory under Emery in previous years had raised hopes significantly.
Fatigue from their journey to the Champions League quarter-finals appeared contagious, affecting both the stands and the players.
"I am not focused on it [the title]," Emery said after the impressive success over Arsenal. "I know 38 matches is incredibly tough. We are not considered a challenger."
Emery regards the training complex at Bodymoor Heath as a fortress, with a high level of focus required from everyone.
He has remained steadfast, even as star striker Ollie Watkins had difficulties for goals initially.
The level of control he possesses at Villa Park is significant – a level he did not have during his tenures at Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain.
This structure has allowed his meticulous processes, from drills to video analysis, to remain consistent and eventually bear fruit.
After stuck to his game plan, the outcomes are now evident.
Villa have won nine of their last ten Premier League games.
A look at their most recent five top-flight fixtures reveals telling improvements:
While it took Villa a period to get going, Unai Emery has demonstrated to be their most potent asset and led their charge in truly impressive fashion.
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