There is a lot at stake for Aston Villa. The upcoming season is one that could see the club continue toward its ambitions, taking the next step forward, or become weighed down by the expectations. Villa has positioned themselves to stick with the current formula through a summer in which many expected multiple players to have to be sent elsewhere.
This affords Villa the chance to capitalize on being one of the few sides that will more or less look the same as it did last season.
With that, though, comes the desire to perform even better. After all, this is a club that has publicly and unapologetically stated the desire to upend the 'big six.'
With such a statement comes added pressure and a target on the back. Many would like to see Villa fail as is. Now, with this somewhat bold approach, the intensity and ill will against Villa become that much stronger.
It is something, however, that Unai Emery wears as a protective cape. The Spaniard isn't too worried about speculations or any increased animosity. He knows what the club is building toward.
Continued patience for Aston Villa
Maybe, to an extent, it is unfair to ask the fan base to be more patient. It has been a while since Villa last won a piece of silverware. There should be an inherent trust in the current organization that is established in B6. Although it is certainly frustrating to watch others win trophies, what is currently taking place at the club will enable the side to win on a consistent basis while striving toward their goal.
Of course, it won't be easy, and pushback is to be expected. Seeing the current undertakings take place and observing how business is taking place at the club, there are far more reasons to be optimistic and hopeful now than not.