Unai Emery Claims Manchester United is on the ‘Same Level as Barcelona’ as Aston Villa Manager Prepares for a Significant Career Choice

November 7, 2026 sportnow UNAI EMERY states that Manchester United is on the same level as Barcelona.

The Spaniard is poised to quash any interest from the Red Devils by signing a new contract with Aston Villa.

Aston Villa, who faced a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Barcelona in the Champions League midweek, will face United this Sunday.

Emery has not secured a win in ELEVEN previous matches at Old Trafford.

He remarked: “We lost to Barcelona due to the level of competition we faced — the highest level in the Champions League. Manchester United is on par with Barcelona.

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“We even lost our first Carabao Cup match at Old Trafford, 4-2. Manchester United is a fantastic club.

“They have been performing excellently and reached the Champions League.

“Currently, they are playing well in the Champions League this season.

“They may not have been consistent in the league, but they should bounce back, hopefully not against us. It’s going to be a challenging match.”

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Despite United’s dramatic 3-2 win over Roma midweek, manager Michael Carrick remains under considerable pressure.

Emery has been mentioned as a potential successor, but discussions regarding an extension to his current deal, which runs until 2029, are expected to continue during the international break.

He noted: “I had a constructive meeting with chairman Nassef Sawiris — very encouraging.

“Let’s reconvene next week to work on finalizing everything we discussed into a deal.”

Emery made it clear that he wants Villa to aim for Champions League glory.

The 55-year-old stated: “Aston Villa won it back in 1982. Were they the favorites then? I don’t think so.

“Leicester City won the league ten years ago.

“In football, anything can happen. At Villarreal, we reached the semi-final four years ago.

“Borussia Dortmund played in the final three years ago. Teams that aren’t favored sometimes seize the opportunity to contest for a title. I have my aspirations.

“I set my standards high, sometimes achieving them and sometimes falling short.

“Last year we lifted the Europa League, and I remain optimistic about our potential for improvement.”

Emery indicated that he shares his vision with Villa’s co-owner Sawiris.

The Spaniard added: “We see eye to eye. His dedication to the club is a significant endorsement of everything.”

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