Amadou Onana: Aston Villa’s New Midfield Enforcer
Introduction:
Aston Villa’s new signing, Amadou Onana, made his competitive debut in their opening Premier League game against West Ham United. As the only summer signing named in the starting lineup, Onana’s presence highlighted the team’s consistency from the previous season. However, it also showcased the only significant change in the midfield, replacing Douglas Luiz, who played a vital role under manager Unai Emery.
Onana’s Role:
In the pre-match warm-up, Onana stood out as the tallest outfield player, reflecting Emery’s preference for physically imposing midfielders. The coach demands courage from his central midfielders, who are responsible for progressing the ball from deep positions, counter-pressing, covering the width of the pitch, and controlling the tempo. Onana’s physical attributes and playing style align perfectly with Emery’s requirements.
Onana’s Personal Journey:
Onana’s journey to professional football has been well-documented. Leaving Senegal at the age of 11 to move to Belgium, he quickly matured both as a player and as a person. His inherent maturity, fostered by the challenges he faced away from the game, is evident in his approach to football. Onana’s commitment is also reflected in his determination to learn Spanish, with Emery and his coaching staff assisting him in the process.
Youthful Team:
Villa’s lineup against West Ham included several young players, with Onana being one of seven players aged 23 or under. Emery’s desire for greater squad depth is accompanied by a long-term vision for the club. Onana’s signing signifies a focus on the present, as his psychological and physical profile perfectly align with the team’s needs.
Press Resistance:
One of the unique qualities Onana brings to Villa’s midfield is his ability to resist pressure from opponents. Taller players like Onana face challenges in maintaining close ball control and evading pressure due to their size. However, Onana uses his physical presence to shield the ball and manipulate it skillfully in tight spaces. This press resistance is crucial in Emery’s system, which invites pressure centrally.
Onana’s Performance against West Ham:
In Villa’s victory over West Ham, Onana displayed his ability to play swiftly and decisively, always aware of his next pass. His quick decision-making made it challenging for West Ham to effectively press and intercept the ball. Additionally, Onana’s height provides Villa with an advantage in both offensive and defensive set pieces, an area where the team previously lacked physicality.
Set Piece Threat:
Onana’s aerial prowess was showcased in the match, as he ranked in the top five percent of midfielders for aerial duels won in the 2023-24 season. This ability makes him a growing threat in the opposition box and adds another dimension to Villa’s set-piece strategies. Onana’s goal from a corner against West Ham exemplified his ability to position himself effectively and score crucial goals.
Leadership and Responsibility:
Onana’s ultimate goal is to become a leader in Villa’s midfield, inheriting the responsibility that Emery seeks in his players. Although it is still early days, Onana’s presence, both figuratively and literally, has already begun to make an impact on the team.
Conclusion:
Amadou Onana’s debut for Aston Villa showcased his unique qualities as a physically imposing midfielder who excels in press resistance and set-piece situations. His personal journey and commitment to learning Spanish demonstrate his dedication to the club and its supporters. As Onana continues to integrate into the team, his impact on Villa’s midfield and overall performance is expected to grow.