Awakening the Giant

The exclusive behind-the-scenes account of Unai Emery's Aston Villa revolution from the award-winning Sunday Times bestseller, Guillem Balagué

In October 2022, Unai Emery was appointed manager of Aston Villa, one of England's most historic and decorated football clubs. However, he found himself walking into a team that was sat just 16th in the Premier League, hovering above the relegation zone, having won just two of their previous eleven matches. Yet, in Emery's very first match, Villa produced a statement victory. They deftly beat Manchester United 3-1 at Villa Park, their first home victory against United since 1995. It was a sign of things to come.

Guillem Balagué has had unparalleled access to Unai Emery, his backroom staff and the Aston Villa squad ever since the Spaniard was first appointed manager in 2022. From Emery's early years growing up in the Basque region to becoming one of the most exciting coaches managing today, Awakening the Giant reveals the inner workings of Emery's psyche. Featuring exclusive interviews with Emery himself, as well as players such as Villa captain John McGinn and star talent Leon Bailey, it charts the journeys of both Emery and Aston Villa over the last three decades, offering a comprehensive and compelling narrative outlining why they are the perfect match.

Emery has transformed Villa into an exciting side renowned for its counter-attacking style of play, with direct passing, high energy and intense speed. A remarkable run of form followed that United victory as Emery led Villa to a 7th placed finish in the 2022-23 season. It was the beginning of a new era, with Villa's fine form continuing into the 2023-24 season as they battled with Pep Guardiola's Manchester City, Jürgen Klopp's Liverpool and Mikel Arteta's Arsenal. Emery unlocked the potential of star striker Ollie Watkins and the Villans finished fourth, qualifing for the Champions League for the first time in over four decades.

Unai Emery has awoken the sleeping giant.