Onana Eyes Move from Aston Villa to World-Class Club

Amadou Onana has openly addressed his ambitions, declaring that an Aston Villa exit for a move to a world-class club remains a central goal in his football career. The Belgian midfielder, who joined Villa from Everton in 2024, has been candid about his future plans while acknowledging the significant development he’s enjoyed under Unai Emery.

Onana’s Ambition: From Aston Villa to the Elite

Amadou Onana’s aspirations extend well beyond his current role at Villa Park. In a recent interview, the 24-year-old made it clear that his long-term objective is to secure a transfer to one of the elite clubs in world football. “Yes, I think one day I’ll make a transfer to a club that is world-class. That is really a career goal,” Onana affirmed, emphasizing his confidence and maturity developed in recent months.

Onana’s move to Aston Villa was not without alternatives. He revealed that after his stint at Everton, he was approached by top clubs but chose Villa as the optimal next step at the time. “Ultimately, I chose Aston Villa because I thought it was the right step at that moment,” he explained.

Unai Emery: The ‘Tactical Genius’ Behind Onana’s Progress

The midfielder has credited Unai Emery as a pivotal influence in his evolution. “He is the best trainer I have already had,” Onana stated, lauding Emery’s ability to inject new tactical perspectives and ideas. Onana specifically pointed out Emery’s daily dedication and tactical ingenuity, which have helped him reach new levels in his game.

Aston Villa are in the thick of the Premier League title race, trailing league leaders Arsenal by just four points with 15 matches left. According to Onana, the squad is aware of their talent but remains grounded: “We try not to talk about the title in the dressing room, but know that we have good players.”

Midfield Challenges: Tielemans’ Injury and Onana’s Expanding Role

Onana also delivered an important squad update, confirming that fellow midfielder Youri Tielemans faces a spell out with injury. Tielemans’ absence comes at a crucial time for Villa’s campaign. “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 shared, highlighting the increased responsibility he must shoulder in the midfield.

Tielemans has been a key figure throughout the season, and Villa’s engine room will now rely even more heavily on Onana’s dynamism and defensive steel as they navigate a congested fixture list in pursuit of silverware.

Goalscoring Debate: Onana’s Role Defined

Amadou Onana addressed criticism over his goal statistics, explaining that his role as a “number six” under Emery means he is less focused on scoring and more on controlling the midfield. “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,” he noted. Onana remains satisfied as long as the coach is content with his performances: “That can be better, but I don’t lie awake from it as long as the trainer is satisfied with my work.”

Looking Ahead: Aston Villa Exit Speculation Grows

With Onana’s comments about his future making headlines, speculation about an eventual Aston Villa exit has intensified. While his immediate focus remains on helping Villa achieve their goals this season, especially with the squad hit by injuries, the midfielder’s openness about seeking a transfer to a world-class club is sure to attract interest from Europe’s elite.

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Opinion: Ambition and Honesty Could Define Onana’s Legacy

Onana’s honesty about his career ambitions is refreshing in modern football. While some may question his commitment to Aston Villa, his drive to play at the very highest level is understandable for a player of his talent. As he continues to mature under Emery, Onana has the platform to become a true leader at Villa—whether he stays in the Midlands or ultimately makes that dream move to a world-class club.