Aston Villa: Celebrating the first year under Dr. Tony Xia

June 14th, 2017 marks the one-year anniversary of Dr. Tony Xia’s takeover of Aston Villa Football Club. Let’s take a moment to celebrate renewed stability at the club after a nightmare decade under Randy Lerner.

Aston Villa may not be back in the Premier League, but the immediate future of the club has been secured. Randy Lerner’s 2016 sale to Recon Group, headed by Dr. Tony Xia brought renewed optimism to Villa Park.

Since last year, we’ve seen a pair of highly qualified managers man the helm. First, it was Champions League winner, Roberto Di Matteo. He was sacked after a single victory in 12 matches to begin the year. Villa ownership rotated to Steve Bruce, who, again, started slowly before an impressive run in 2017.

Dr. Tony Xia’s first year in charge saw increased funds for the transfer market. Last season Aston Villa spent north of £70 million combined in both windows – despite playing in the English Championship. Randy Lerner spent exactly £0 in his last window in charge, January 2016.

Xia recognized some of the mistakes made in the summer window based on waste. His cognizance of early mistakes should ease supporters’ minds as the club prepares for its second season in the division.

Furthermore, Villa continued success in the youth department: André Green, Rushian Hepburn-Muprhy, Keinan Davis, Corey Blackett-Taylor all made varying contributions to the first team despite all being age 20 or younger. In addition, the Villa U-23s finished just outside a playoff spot in the Premier League 2, ahead of Brighton, West Brom, Stoke City, and others.

Next: Aston Villa interested in England U-18 left back

In just a short few weeks, Villa’s new kit sponsor will be revealed. How Aston Villa continues to succeed commercially will go a long way in determining future playing success on the pitch.

So, relax, take a step back, and cherish how far better a situation Aston Villa are in with Dr. Tony Xia at the reigns.