With 11 major trophies to his name and a reputation as one of Europe’s best coaches, Unai Emery’s observations on the game are always worth remembering.
Rather than pace, technique, speed or balance, the Aston Villa boss prizes versatility over every other quality. That is why he urged Villa to sign a Middlesbrough fringe player in January 2024, based on a handful of viewings. Less than two years later, Morgan Rogers is one of the most valuable wide attackers in Europe.
Thanks to the dizzying output of players like Harry Kane, Erling Haaland and Robert Lewandowski, as well as Alexander Isak, Mateo Retegui and Viktor Gyokeres, the traditional No9 is alive and well.