Unai Emery’s Tactical Flexibility: Ezri Konsa’s Role in Aston Villa’s Defense
This summer, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery indicated that he would prioritize utilizing Ezri Konsa in his natural position as a center-back for the upcoming season. However, recent developments suggest that the Basque coach may once again display adaptability in his tactical approach.
Konsa, who is versatile enough to play as a right-back, demonstrated his effectiveness in that role during parts of last season. This versatility allowed Emery to position Pau Torres and Diego Carlos centrally, creating a backline featuring three center-backs, which contributed to a structured defensive style. While this strategy faced challenges in the latter stages of the previous season as Konsa struggled to maintain form, it made a reappearance in the second half of Villa’s recent Champions League victory against Young Boys.
The decision to revert to this tactical setup was somewhat forced, as Matty Cash was sidelined due to injury, and young players Kosta Nedeljkovic and Lamare Bogarde were still developing their skills. With Cash expected to return soon and Tyrone Mings not far behind, Emery has expressed his interest in deploying Konsa at right-back again. He emphasized how this could influence the team’s overall playing style and potentially serve as a crucial tactical solution, as it has in the past.
Emery has also noted that Konsa still has untapped potential. “Konsa’s potential is better even than he is showing,” he stated in a recent press conference. “He is a very good player with significant physical, technical, and tactical capabilities. This year, we are pushing him to develop even further. He started the season positively, showing great focus and adaptability.”
Last season, while Konsa played at right-back, he sometimes lacked the necessary concentration and confidence. Emery acknowledged that although Konsa performed well in key matches, he was not fully convinced about his effectiveness in that role by the season’s end. However, following their recent performance against Young Boys, there are signs that he is regaining that confidence.
Discussions regarding squad management during pre-season and the transfer window highlighted the importance of maintaining a flexible tactical structure. Emery considered various scenarios, including the possibility of Diego Carlos leaving the club, but the defender ultimately chose to stay. This decision has allowed Villa to maintain a strong defensive core, with the prospect of utilizing Carlos, Konsa, and Torres together as a formidable trio.
Emery is also optimistic about the contributions of younger players like Lamare Bogarde, who can add depth and versatility to the defensive lineup. With these center-backs working cohesively, including Mings upon his return, the team aims to strengthen its structure and overall effectiveness.
Emery further elaborated on the tactical nuances of utilizing Konsa at right-back, noting that while he may not be a traditional high-pressing right-back, his ability to maintain possession and manage the build-up play is crucial. He also highlighted the importance of physicality and defensive duties in this role, particularly in man-to-man situations.
As the team adjusts to Cash’s injury, both Kosta and Bogarde are undergoing tactical training to ensure they can effectively contribute to the team’s strategy. Emery acknowledged that while Kosta is still adapting, Bogarde’s versatility could see him playing various roles across the defense and midfield, enhancing the squad’s tactical depth.
This adaptability in personnel and formation is vital for Villa’s strategic planning, allowing them to switch between playing with three or four center-backs as needed. This flexibility is a hallmark of successful teams like Arsenal and Manchester City, which have redefined defensive structures in modern football.
The implications of deploying Konsa at right-back are significant for Villa’s overall setup. If he tucks inside to form a back-three, it frees up the left-back, Ian Maatsen, to push forward, adding an attacking dimension. Alternatively, if Konsa plays centrally with Torres, the team can integrate Cash or Nedeljkovic to enhance width and attacking options down the right.
- The effectiveness of this approach will depend on its execution, especially considering the team’s mixed results towards the end of last season. Nonetheless, this versatility is a notable strength of the Villa squad, and Emery will likely continue to refine and plan strategies to maximize its potential in upcoming matches. With careful preparation and tactical awareness, Villa is poised to leverage these dynamics effectively, regardless of the opposition.