Report: Aston Villa could now replace Gerrard with 50-year-old manager who Emi Martinez has left in shock

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The Telegraph reports that Aston Villa could now replace Steven Gerrard with former Arsenal boss Unai Emery – who was once left in shock by Emiliano Martinez.

Gerrard’s men fell to a 2-0 defeat against Chelsea at Villa Park on Sunday afternoon and the home crowd let their feelings be known about their side.

The Villa boss received some boos from areas within the stadium after what has been an underwhelming start to the new campaign.

The Villains currently sit one point above the relegation zone in 16th place after 10 games played.

Gerrard will be hoping he is given more time to turn his side’s form around but the Telegraph reports the club are looking at possible options to replace him.

Villa could replace Gerrard with Emery

The outlet claims that Villa will make an ambitious attempt to lure former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino back into management.

But if he was to reject the Midlands club, they could look at ex-Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel or Villarreal manager Emery.

The club feel they need a big step-up in profile if they are to replace Gerrard and Emery could fit the bill.

The 50-year-old was sacked by Arsenal back in November 2019 but did lead the Gunners to a Europa League final.

During his time there, now Villa goalkeeper Martinez said he left Emery shocked by his goalkeeping abilities.

“Unai Emery, the current coach, wanted to see me and was very surprised with me,” Martinez told Clarin back in October 2019.

“In fact, I stayed because I knew I had real chances; otherwise, I would have gone to play somewhere else.

“London is very nice, I’m comfortable, but I’m not staying in comfort. And if I had to go somewhere else to play, I would do it.”

Although Emery’s time with Arsenal didn’t quite work out, he went on to achieve big things with Villarreal.

Just last year, the Spaniard won a Europa League title with the La Liga outfit after beating Manchester United in the final.

Emery then guided Villarreal to a Champions League semi-final last season, beating European powerhouses Bayern Munich along the way.

The former Arsenal boss has shown he can compete at the very highest level and has punched above his weight in Spain.

Villa seem to be keen on Pochettino but should they have trouble convincing the Argentine, Emery could be a suitable replacement should Gerrard get the sack.