Ross Barkley has hailed Unai Emery as one of the world's best managers after Aston Villa demolished Fenerbahce.

The midfielder scored twice, including a penalty, in the second half to help Villa beat their Turkish hosts 6-0 in the Champions League.

Johan Manzambi and Nicolas Jackson's double put Villa 3-0 up at half-time, before Barkley and Tammy Abraham completed the rout on Wednesday.

It was Villa's first home win of the season and after a summer of upheaval, including six key exits and 10 arrivals, Barkley sees things coming together - thanks to Emery.

"As the weeks go by, everyone is growing, but it's led by the manager. He's one of the best managers in the world and, with time, everyone learns and improves. It's exciting," said the 32-year-old.

"Once you grasp it, the game becomes easy for you if you're on it on gameday. The game comes together."

It was Barkley's sixth start of the season, having only made eight in 2025-26, and the former Everton youngster is relishing his revival.

Barkley added: "I love being a part of the club. It's a great club, a great team, it's fantastic. My role is to be ready when I come off the bench or when I start.

"When I come on the pitch I've got to do what I can do. If I don't perform at my best, the next game I've got to come through and lead and perform better.

"There's always competition for places in our team. We've got four or five central midfielders, so it's just about being ready."