Villa are pushing for a stunning 10th successive victory across all competitions this weekend as they host United at Villa Park. Victory this weekend would mark the first time since 1914 that the hosts have accomplished such a goal, as they aim to make history.
Emery’s side also have a three-point gap to leaders Arsenal, which means a win against United could send them to the top of the league on Christmas Day.
Martinez returns?
The Villa boss first gave some crucial team news on several players as Emery prepares to rotate his side after last week’s narrow win against West Ham United.
"Emiliano (Martinez) is progressing well. He is training individually and feeling better, much better and tomorrow we will decide if he is available or not for Sunday.
“Tyrone Mings is still injured, he is getting better and maybe in a few weeks he will maybe join us. Pau Torres is the same. Ross Barkley is still injured, longer than those two players. Elliot is sick today, he didn't train today."
Villa must respect United
Emery masterminded Villa’s last victory over the Red Devils on home soil in 2022. The Spaniard was asked about his record against this weekend’s opponents, who remain within touching distance of the top four.
"Yes, very difficult. Of course, it's United. United not only for their history but how they are trying to be a team. They are trying to get a top position. They are performing very, very well away.
"At home they are having some more problems than away. If you study how they are performing with the new coach last year and this year, I think they are getting better. With the players they have, they have very good players.
"We are ready but we are respecting them and we are being humble. Especially in this moment we are being humble to understand why we are performing like we are."