Unai Emery has built his managerial reputation on turning teams into organised, tactically disciplined sides capable of competing with wealthier opponents.

His success has not depended on managing the biggest names in football, but on making his teams difficult to play against and maximising the players available to him.

Aston Villa were languishing in 16th place when he arrived at Villa Park in October 2022.

Within a relatively short period, he had taken them into the Champions League and established them as a regular presence in European competition.

His European pedigree has grown further, with another Europa League triumph adding to the three he won with Sevilla and the one he claimed with Villarreal.

Villa have also continued to compete in Europe this season, strengthening the impression that Emery’s project is still moving forward.

Manchester United are now considering Unai Emery as a potential replacement for Michael Carrick.

Unai Emery will leave Aston Villa for Manchester United

According to The i Paper, despite claims that Unai Emery would not leave Aston Villa, other reports suggest the Spaniard could consider a move to Manchester United if the opportunity arose.

The i Paper reports that several senior figures at Old Trafford view Emery as their preferred candidate, particularly given Villa’s continued impressive performances this season.

Emery’s record stretches well beyond his work in England.

He won Ligue 1 with Paris Saint-Germain, lifted the Europa League three consecutive times with Sevilla and later guided Villarreal to the same trophy in 2021.

His return to the Premier League with Villa has also been productive, helping the club qualify for the Champions League in two of his first three full seasons and winning another Europa League title in 2026.

That track record offers United a manager with experience rebuilding a club and delivering results across domestic and European competitions.

Yet his previous Premier League spell at Arsenal was less successful, and the environment at Old Trafford would bring its own challenges.

The financial side could prove just as important.

Emery remains contracted to Villa until 2029, and reports suggest United could face compensation of around £20 million to secure his services.

His salary is also reported to be among the highest of the potential candidates.

Emery is not the only name being discussed as United weigh up their options.

Eddie Howe is reportedly favoured by director of football Jason Wilcox because of his Premier League experience.

Howe left Newcastle United in July and would reportedly consider returning to management if United approached him.

Antonio Conte has also been mentioned as an option, while Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has attracted interest.

Emery would bring an impressive European record and a proven ability to build competitive teams, but United would need to overcome both Villa’s resistance and the financial cost of the appointment.