Unai Emery has emerged as a potential target for both Manchester United and Real Madrid following his impressive work at Aston Villa.
The 54-year-old has overseen a remarkable transformation at Villa since taking charge in late 2022, consistently guiding the club into the upper tier of the Premier League.
Villa have finished in the top seven in each full season under Emery and are currently pushing for another top-five finish, which would secure UEFA Champions League qualification.
They are also enjoying a strong run in European competition, having reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League.
Although major silverware has so far eluded him at Villa, Emery’s achievements have elevated his reputation among Europe’s elite managers, building on previous roles at Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
Sources indicate that Villa are aware of growing interest but remain confident of keeping their manager, who is under contract until 2029.
The club’s upward trajectory, including the prospect of regular Champions League football, is seen as a key factor in retaining him.
However, reports suggest intermediaries have begun promoting Emery’s availability to top clubs.
Manchester United are said to be among those assessing his profile as they consider long-term managerial options.
Interim boss Michael Carrick has impressed since taking charge, but the club is believed to be evaluating multiple candidates, including Julian Nagelsmann and Andoni Iraola.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation following their split with Xabi Alonso, with Alvaro Arbeloa currently in interim charge.
The Spanish giants are understood to prefer Jurgen Klopp as a long-term option, while other names linked include Mauricio Pochettino and Didier Deschamps.
For now, Aston Villa remain confident that Emery will stay, but his continued success ensures he remains firmly on the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs.
