Credit: Imago

Harri Burton

Wed 6 August 2025 21:52, UK

Unai Emery sealed yet another victory during their pre-season preparations as Aston Villa beat AS Roma at the Bescot Stadium.

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The Villans raced into the lead via a sensational free-kick from Emi Buendia, with Jacob Ramsey and Ollie Watkins adding to the scoresheet before the half-time whistle on Wednesday, 6 August.

Donyell Malen fired home a fourth for Emery’s side, piling further misery on the Serie A side, with remaining fixtures against Marseille and Villarreal left.

With the Villans facing Newcastle United in their Premier League opener on Saturday, 16 August, Emery will want his side to be in the best form before taking on Eddie Howe’s team at Villa Park.

Emi Martinez (Off for Bizot 46?) – 6

Barely had to be called upon, not making a single save before being substituted.

Lamare Bogarde (Off for Cash 46?) – 6

A solid shift at full-back by the youngster, who continues to play everywhere but his natural position.

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Ezri Konsa – 8

Can always be called upon to defend with his life, putting his body on the line to challenge for the ball.

Will always play an integral role in Emery’s system at Villa Park.

Leon Bailey (Off for McGinn 46?) – 3

Extremely disappointing from the winger, who continues to be linked with an exit this summer.

Zero chances created, no tackles won, no shots taken, and hugely off target on the pitch.

Emi Buendia (Off for Rogers 46?) – 9 – Player of the Match

Outstanding 45 minutes.

Huge statement ahead of next season.

Jacob Ramsey (Off for George Hemmings 64?) – 8

Took his goal beautifully in the first half, slotting under the onrushing Mile Svilar after a through-ball from Tielemans.

Ollie Watkins (Off for Malen 46?) – 8

Got his deserved goal after plenty of effort in the opening 45 minutes, notching his fourth of pre-season.

Substitutes

Marco Bizot (On for Martinez 46?) – 6

Managed to make a save in the second half.

Seemed very stable against AS Roma.

Donyell Malen (On for Watkins 46?) – 8

Shone as a second-half substitute, firing home a long-range effort for Villa’s fourth on the night.

Lucas Digne (On for Maatsen 46?) – 6

Got stuck into challenges, overturned the ball, and had a no-nonsense approach in the defensive third.

Morgan Rogers (On for Buendia 46?, Off for Jameldeen Jimoh 52?) – N/A

Went off with an injury after a few minutes – very worrying.

Morgan Rogers went off injured against AS Roma.

(Credit Imago)

Amadou Onana (On for Tielemans 46?) – 7

Ever-dependable in the middle of the park, sticking a foot in and driving the Villans forward.

John McGinn (On for Bailey 46?) – 7

Grabbed the assist for Malen’s goal, proving to the manager why he should be starting again next season.

Matty Cash (On for Bogarde 46?) – 4

A little weak in the tackle, but barely got involved in the final third.
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