Those on international duty had the option to arrive back for the start of Aston Villa training later. Although, it must be mentioned that Andrés García decided to skip the extra rest and could be seen in Bodymoor during the sessions.
It is only the beginning of preseason, and there isn't too much that has been shared from the club as of yet. Still, the sight of Unai Emery in his Villa cap provided many with that needed boost to get through the rest of the summer without a match. With many friendlies on the schedule, that will change soon, and Villa fans will have their fix. There is just something to seeing the pictures of the side in the training environment, signaling the imminent return of proper club activity.
There are some uncertainties regarding who even will be on the team by the time the first Premier League match against Newcastle United gets here. Even so, there is room for optimism.
When looking at the intensity and focus of Emery, it is hard to not believe that the club is in the hands of an excellent manager who will simply find a way to make the needed improvements and challenge the top sides in the EPL.
It is possible that such claims are overambitious, but that has been the long-stated aim of Villa. They view their place among the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal. Certainly during Champions League, Villa showcased their high-end potential against Bayern Munich and PSG.
Massive year ahead for Aston Villa
Now, about to embark on a new season, Villa has the chance to continue to chip away at those doubting the most recent accomplishments. For many, last season was a one-off, and those critical voices expect Emery's side to 'come back down to earth.'
This is where the naysayers are mistaken. Emery and the rest of the Villa staff are building something sustainable that will last in B6 and will serve as the catalyst for bringing down the assumed status of the 'big six' members.