Aston Villa player pre-season clash against Borussia Dortmund ended in a disappointing 2-0 defeat, highlighting areas that need improvement as the new season approaches. The match provided a crucial opportunity for Unai Emery to assess his squad, particularly younger players and new signings. Here, we delve into the player ratings based on their performances against the German giants.
Table of Contents
Goalkeeper
Emi Martinez: 7/10
Martinez was one of the standout players for Villa on the night. He made several key saves to keep the scoreline respectable, particularly in the first half when Dortmund threatened to run away with the game. His positioning was generally solid, and he demonstrated his shot-stopping ability. However, he could do little about the two goals, both of which were well-executed by the opposition.
Defenders
Matty Cash: 6/10
Cash had a mixed performance, often getting caught out of position as Dortmund exploited Villa’s flanks. He showed determination going forward, attempting to support the attack, but his defensive duties were sometimes lacking, leading to opportunities for Dortmund. He needs to find a better balance between attacking and defensive responsibilities.
Ezri Konsa: 6/10
Konsa was solid in parts but struggled to cope with Dortmund’s pace and movement. He made some crucial interceptions and tackles but was sometimes caught flat-footed, particularly on the counter-attack. As a center-back, he needs to communicate more effectively with his defensive partners to avoid lapses in concentration.
Pau Torres: 7/10
Torres was one of Villa’s better performers, showing composure on the ball and good defensive awareness. He made several vital clearances and managed to read the game well, stepping in to break up play when needed. His partnership with Konsa has potential, but they need to work on their understanding moving forward.
Lucas Digne: 5/10
Digne had a frustrating night, both defensively and offensively. He struggled to contain Dortmund’s attacking players, which led to several dangerous situations. Offensively, his crosses lacked quality, and he failed to provide the width that Villa needed on the left side. Digne will need to improve significantly if he wants to reclaim his spot as a first-choice left-back.
Midfielders
Douglas Luiz: 6/10
Luiz showed glimpses of his quality but lacked consistency throughout the match. He tried to dictate play from deep but was often overrun by Dortmund’s midfield. His passing was hit-and-miss, and he will need to be more effective in transitioning the ball from defense to attack to help Villa maintain possession.
Boubacar Kamara: 6/10
Kamara put in a decent shift, breaking up play and contributing defensively, but he struggled to influence the game in an attacking sense. His passing lacked precision at times, and he was unable to connect effectively with the forwards. A solid performance, but he needs to step up as a key player in midfield as the season progresses.
John McGinn: 5/10
McGinn was largely anonymous during the match, failing to impose himself on the game as he usually does. He had limited influence in both attack and defense, with his usual energy and creativity lacking. As Villa’s captain, he will need to lead by example in future fixtures, showing more determination to impact the game.
Forwards
Leon Bailey: 5/10
Bailey had a disappointing night, failing to make the impact Villa needed from him. He often looked isolated on the wing and struggled to take on his defenders. His decision-making in the final third was questionable, leading to wasted opportunities. Bailey must find a way to contribute more effectively if he wants to secure a regular starting spot.
Ollie Watkins: 6/10
Watkins worked hard throughout the match but often found himself starved of service. He attempted to create chances for himself, but the support from midfield was lacking. His movement off the ball was good, but he needs to be more clinical when given opportunities to score. Watkins remains a vital asset to the team, but he will need more help from his teammates moving forward.
Morgan Rogers: 4/10
Rogers’ performance was below par, and he struggled to adapt to the demands of the match. He was largely ineffective in his role and failed to make any significant contributions in attack.
Substitutes
Jhon Duran: 6/10 (on for Rogers, 60′)
Duran brought some much-needed energy when he came on, but his impact was limited. He showed willingness to press and link up with the midfield, but he struggled to carve out clear chances. There are promising signs in his game, and with more playing time, he could develop into a valuable asset.
Jacob Ramsey: 6/10 (on for McGinn, 60′)
Ramsey injected some creativity into the midfield after his introduction. He looked to take the game to Dortmund and provided a few nice passes, but the overall team performance made it difficult for him to shine. He will be crucial for Villa as the season progresses and will need to find his rhythm quickly.
Ashley Young: 7/10 (on for Digne, 70′)
Young brought experience and leadership to the pitch after coming on. He was solid defensively and provided some quality deliveries into the box. His versatility and ability to read the game were evident, and he could become a key player in various roles throughout the season.
Tim Iroegbunam: 6/10 (on for Kamara, 70′)
Iroegbunam had a decent outing, showing good awareness and passing ability in midfield. He managed to maintain possession and distribute the ball effectively, although he did not have enough time to make a significant impact. The young midfielder is one to watch as he continues to develop.
Final Thoughts
The 2-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund served as a reminder of the challenges ahead for Aston Villa as they prepare for the new season. While there were some individual performances that stood out, the overall team display was lacking in cohesion and effectiveness.
As Villa fans look ahead, the hope is that the team can learn from this defeat and build the necessary momentum for a successful campaign.
