Unai Emery makes feelings on Villa Park expansion clear as Aston Villa home struggles continue

Unai Emery has insisted Aston Villa must improve their performances despite the disruption caused by the ongoing redevelopment of Villa Park.

With the North Stand closed for the 2026-27 season and home form deteriorating, the Spaniard has made clear where his priorities lie.

What has Unai Emery said about Aston Villa's stadium redevelopment?

Villa Park's North Stand remains a shell as construction work continues, reducing the stadium's capacity to around 37,000 while the club targets an eventual capacity of more than 50,000.

Emery acknowledged that having approximately 7,000 fewer supporters creates a disadvantage, but stressed that the redevelopment is intended to benefit Villa in the long term.

“Our handicap is less supporters for the situation, but the club decided it. It is something to improve us for the future,” he said ahead of their Champions League clash with Fenerbahce.

However, the Spaniard was clear that the missing stand cannot be used to justify Villa's disappointing performances. Following Saturday's 2-2 draw with Brentford, Villa remained without a home win this season, having also suffered defeats against Arsenal and Nottingham Forest.

Emery insisted his players needed to produce better football, compete harder and improve their concentration, regardless of the circumstances.

The numbers underline the contrast with Villa's previous home dominance.

Between November 2022 and January 2026, they lost just eight of 61 Premier League matches at Villa Park, winning 44, including a run of 15 consecutive victories.

Villans star Matty Cash also admitted that the stadium feels different with one stand missing, but agreed that the team must adapt rather than make excuses.

FGG says: Villa cannot let Villa Park's expansion become an excuse

Emery's comments are understandable, particularly given that the redevelopment is designed to strengthen Villa's long-term financial position and help them compete at the highest level.

A bigger stadium should ultimately provide greater opportunities to generate revenue and support the club's ambitions.

However, the immediate challenge is ensuring that the construction work does not become a distraction.

Villa have set high standards under Emery, and their previous home record shows that they are capable of creating an intimidating atmosphere even against elite opposition.

With Fenerbahce visiting in the Champions League, delivering a convincing performance would be an important step towards restoring confidence on – and off – the pitch at Villa Park.