'We must feel very proud' – Emery backs Villa youngsters after Super Cup defeat to PSG

Despite a 2-1 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup, Unai Emery believes Aston Villa have ample reason for pride. PSG took the lead through Kvicha Kvaratskhelia, but Brian Madjo equalized for Villa before halftime, only for Desire Doue to score the decisive goal in the second half.

Emery shared his positive outlook with TNT Sports, stating, "With a loss, you can never feel happy but how we compete, how the players respond on the field for 90 minutes – and our chances to score – we must feel really very proud of what we have done today." Villa had notable scoring opportunities, with Safonov making saves and Zaire-Emery making a crucial block against Joao Gomes.

The manager was particularly impressed with the performances of young players Madjo and Hemmings. "Their experiences and having days like today are very important," Emery commented. "They show how they are learning after their hard work. This is the way – we decided before the game how we wanted to play, we have worked the players in these positions."

World Cup participants Emiliano Martinez, Ezri Konsa, and Ollie Watkins are set to rejoin training following the match. "They are joining us after this match. They are not going to be there on Saturday but they will start training with us now," Emery confirmed. "We wanted to give them four weeks’ holiday because the season was very demanding. We think it’s better to work with players that are fit. Overall we can feel proud of everything we’ve done. Some changes will be needed but we are confident.”

Buendia echoes positive words

Emiliano Buendia echoed his manager's sentiments, acknowledging the sting of the defeat but also the quality of PSG. "Not a good feeling. We can be proud of the game we did – we competed well, we had chances. They are top players. They get chances, they score and they won the game."

Buendia also highlighted the team's resilience in the second half. "We were there and competing very well at 1-1. At the end of the first half we had chances. Second half we were showing character."

Despite the outcome, Buendia emphasized the solid foundation Emery has established at Villa Park. "There are changes but the structure, the manager and the club want to keep. We have to keep working hard.”