Aston Villa boss Unai Emery has backed Moussa Diaby to come through a difficult spell as he continues to struggle for form.
Although the 24-year-old has made 31 appearances so far this season and has five goals and six assists, he has failed to return to his peak form, as evidenced by the one goal he has scored in his previous 12 Premier League outings.
It follows his outstanding debut season at Villa, where early indications pointed to his ability to rapidly adjust to our playing style and structure and establish himself as a key player for us in the closing third.
But his goal involvements have decreased and he hasn’t been able to consistently threaten Villa up front; our midweek loss to Newcastle United was evidence of this.
However, Emery was eager to stand by and defend the Frenchman, and for good reason. He maintained that Diaby’s approach and mindset during training will help him navigate the process of integration and adaptation in the end.
In response to a question regarding Diaby at his pre-game news conference, Emery stated, “I spoke with him and usually we are meeting with the squad, with the team collectively and individually too,” according to VillaTV. “I convey the same message to them: we are in the process of forming a team.
“We added a few players in the summer and more recently in January. We must work to strengthen the squad’s organizational structure with everyone. We have skilled athletes and professionals for various roles.
Moussa Diaby is one of them, and I’m content with him. He is really committed, and he behaves admirably. Although he is still learning, I can understand why his performances haven’t been constant.
It is challenging for him to adjust to life in the Premier League. It’s not sure if it’s harder than in Germany, but it’s still hard.
We are continually attempting to convey to him that we are working together to form a team. You must comprehend and put into great practice how we may integrate other players into our tactical concept and get stronger as we approach each match.
He is in the process, and I am content with it. For me, daily behavior and commitment are the most crucial factors. He is constantly working on his technique and getting better alongside his teammates.
Since Emery’s appointment, we have witnessed firsthand how he has developed several crucial players and enabled them to elevate their respective games, as demonstrated by the innumerable Villa players.
Even if Diaby’s play is now suffering, there is optimism that he will ultimately turn things around and start playing a key role in the team once more. This will be extremely helpful as we continue to compete on many fronts.
Having said that, it will be interesting to see if Emery starts the Villa star in his starting lineup for this weekend’s trip to Sheffield United, or if he benchs him in favor of giving the player time to recover and gradually return to his best.
It’s important to be patient with Diaby because he is undoubtedly a top-tier player. It’s also hoped that he can establish consistency and succeed in his new role, which is likely partially to blame for his difficulties as he adjusts to playing in Ollie Watkins’ support rather than perhaps his more winger-oriented role.
