After several months out of football, Unai Emery is reportedly keen for a return to management with Villarreal set to be his next move, according to ESPN. The news comes after Javier Calleja, the current boss, spoke about his future.
REPORT: Unai Emery Set For Villareal Position
Lifeline For Emery
Before taking up the managerial role at Arsenal, Unai Emery was regarded as one of the best managers in the world, having just departed Paris Saint-Germain. Since suffering Arsenal failure, however, Emery’s reputation is not one of a world-class manager but, instead, one of a failed tactician. The hit on his reputation was a harsh one too when considering his prior achievements, which includes winning three Europa League trophies in a row with Sevilla.
Now, eight months after his dismissal at the Emirates, Emery has the chance to return to where he originally built himself as a manager with a return to Spain and La Liga. This time, the Spaniard looks set to take the reigns at Villarreal with Javier Calleja’s future doubtful. The so-called Yellow Submarines will become the fifth Spanish club that Emery has taken charge of in his career if the move happens, and the seventh club overall.
Javier Calleja- A Difficult Man to Replace
Speaking to Sky Sports when asked about his future, Calleja said: “I do not talk about my future. What happens will be decided by the club.
“I have a good relationship with the club, and I am grateful for the opportunity Villarreal have given me. I will continue to work hard for Villarreal, and let others make the decisions.”
If the rumours are true of Javier Calleja’s departure, whoever comes in, whether it be Emery or someone else, will have a difficult job in bettering the Spaniard’s achievements at Villarreal. Calleja guided his side to as a high as fifth in the league this season to qualify for next season’s Europa League.
If hired, it is a career lifeline that Emery must drain every inch of success out of and finally re-establish his previously respectable reputation.
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