“I am very happy with him, The team needs him, There is nothing in my mind that has changed”- Unai Emery confirms Aston Villa star will not leave Villa Park in January after Burnley win
As we reach the halfway point of the campaign, it is safe to say that Clement Lenglet has endured a difficult season in the Premier League. Joining Aston Villa on a season-long loan deal in the summer, Lenglet has struggled with game-time at Villa Park this season.
Despite being a regular in Europa Conference League matches, Lenglet has featured in just four Premier League matches so far. This has led to uncertainty over his future, with AC Milan notably interested in his services.
As Lenglet continues to struggle with game-time, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has recently opened up about the Frenchman after the experienced centre back starred in the 3-2 win over Burnley.
“Lenglet is a very good professional. He even came when the players had a day off to do extra work. I speak to Lenglet and send him a message that I’m very happy with him,” Emery said
The Spaniard, though, has barely shown any trust in the Frenchman this season, with the player falling behind Pau Torres, Ezri Konsa and Diego Carlos in the pecking order.
Despite Lenglet’s lack of importance in the team, though, Aston Villa have appeared quite reluctant to let him go early.
AC Milan, in particular, are among the clubs exploring a deal for Lenglet in the upcoming January transfer window. But the Rossoneri are facing a roadblock from Aston Villa.
Emery, too, hinted that Aston Villa would require Lenglet’s services till the end of the season, adding, “I need him, the team needs him now. We agreed a contract between the club and him to help us in the summer. There is nothing in my mind that has changed in this relationship.”
It must be noted that Lenglet has started the last four matches in a row for Aston Villa, which could be a sign of regained trust from Emery.
Emery’s comments, however, could serve as a major blow not just for AC Milan, but also for Barcelona, who are desperately looking to free up their salary mass by securing the exit of unwanted stars.
