Onana Targets World-Class Move After Aston Villa Success

Amadou Onana casts an ambitious vision for his future at Aston Villa, declaring his intent to one day join a world-class club but emphasizing his current commitment and development in the Premier League.

Amadou Onana: Aston Villa as a Stepping Stone to Elite Clubs

Amadou Onana has openly stated that his ambition extends beyond Aston Villa, as he eyes a future transfer to one of the world’s top football clubs. The Belgian midfielder, who transferred from Everton to Villa Park in 2024, made his intentions clear during a recent interview, explaining that reaching a world-class club is a key career objective.

“Yes, I think one day I’ll make a transfer to a club that is world-class,” Onana told Het Nieuwsblad. “That is really a career goal. I am 24 and feel that I have become more mature. In the past months, I have played my best football ever.” Onana’s honesty highlights his drive to compete at the very highest level, but he also credits Aston Villa with providing an environment of growth under manager Unai Emery.

Aston Villa’s Influence: Growth Under Unai Emery

Onana stressed that his time at Aston Villa has been marked by significant personal development. He praised Unai Emery, calling him “the best trainer I have already had” and a “tactical genius.” The Spaniard’s impact has been profound, with Onana noting, “He brings me new ideas about my game. Tactically, he is a genius. It is impressive to see him busy every day.” This guidance has elevated Onana’s performances in the Premier League and helped him mature as a player.

Onana’s Decision: Why Aston Villa?

Looking back on his decision to join Aston Villa, Onana revealed that he had interest from other high-profile clubs following his time at Everton. “After my period at Everton, I already had contact with top clubs,” he admitted. “Ultimately, I chose Aston Villa because I thought it was the right step at that moment.” It’s clear that Onana saw Villa as the ideal platform to further his career, despite tempting offers elsewhere.

Premier League Ambitions: Title Race and Team Spirit

The midfielder’s comments come as Aston Villa sit just four points behind league leaders Arsenal, firmly entrenched in the title race with 15 matches left in the campaign. Onana spoke about the team’s mindset: “We are now four points behind Arsenal, but there are still many matches to play. We try not to talk about the title in the dressing room, but know that we have good players.”

Maintaining focus and composure, Onana emphasized the collective belief in Villa’s quality while acknowledging the importance of taking each match as it comes. The squad’s ambition is palpable, but they are careful not to get ahead of themselves in the high-pressure environment of a title chase.

Injury Setback: Tielemans Sidelined

Aston Villa’s midfield has been rocked by news that Youri Tielemans will spend several weeks on the sidelines due to injury. Onana described the situation as “a heavy blow,” recognizing Tielemans’ crucial role in Villa’s engine room. “That’s a heavy blow for him, he was in great form. We hope that he is back in time for the final sprint,” Onana added. The absence of Tielemans will increase Onana’s responsibility in the midfield, as Villa faces a challenging fixture list during a crucial segment of the season.

Onana’s Role: Focus on Defensive Duties, Not Goals

When questioned about his goal tally, Onana responded candidly. While his physical presence is significant, he clarified that his responsibilities under Emery are focused on playing as a “number six”—the team’s key defensive midfielder—rather than as an attacking threat. “Yes, I am big, but that doesn’t make such a difference to score. I am not a number nine, but a number six at Aston Villa. On set pieces, I am also not always the target. We try to do other things to surprise our opponent.”

Onana has scored 17 goals in 219 career appearances, but he remains unconcerned about his numbers as long as he fulfills his specific duties on the pitch. “That can be better, but I don’t lie awake from it as long as the trainer is satisfied with my work,” he concluded.

Looking Ahead: Onana’s Future and Villa’s Prospects

Onana’s ambition to reach a world-class club is clear, yet his focus remains on helping Aston Villa achieve their goals this season. His blend of humility and drive is a testament to his professionalism. With the club in the thick of the title race, Onana’s leadership and consistency will be vital, especially with Tielemans unavailable.

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Opinion: Onana’s Honesty a Strength for Villa

Onana’s open admission about his career goals may unsettle some supporters, but it also reflects a winning mentality that can propel both player and club forward. His focus and maturity under Unai Emery’s guidance showcase a player determined to maximize his potential—qualities that will serve both him and Aston Villa well, on and off the pitch.