Merson warns Emery's Villa stay in jeopardy after player exodus

Former Aston Villa star Paul Merson warned that Unai Emery will not stay at Villa Park if the club continues to sell its top players, after the side were thrashed 4‑0 by Brighton in the Premier League opener on 26 August 2026.

Mass exodus after Europa triumph

Villa have seen the bulk of the squad that lifted the Europa League final in May depart. Already former players Ezri Konsa, Lucas Digne, Youri Tielemans and Morgan Rogers have been offloaded.

Emi Martinez and Ollie Watkins are poised to follow, while the club spent a record fee on Johan Manzambi, leaving the side a shadow of last season.

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In the Premier League opener Villa were hammered 4‑0 by Brighton, with the Seagulls four goals up inside 31 minutes and Joao Gomes sent off before half‑time.

Former Aston Villa star Paul Merson said, “It’s madness at the highest level,” and added, “I don’t see Emery hanging around for long if things continue like this.”

Villa host Arsenal on Monday, where Konsa could make his Gunners debut against his former club, while the team prepares for Champions League duties on four fronts. Writer21:33, Samuel Meade, Sports Brand, Aug, ImagesUnai.