The way in which Aston Villa manager Unai Emery explains the current summer transfer approach all but calls out the way in which the 'big six' have too much control.
Villa supporters would thoroughly love to see the club go out and make some highly publicized signings. There is an entire system, however, working against the side. The reality of the situation is that Villa have been forced to make some difficult choices.
When then also looking at how the rest of the Premier League is in a consistent race for the best available players. Instead of looking to keep pace, Emery and Monchi have instead opted for a different option.
Their approach is a clear one that invests in those who have already shown their willingness to fight for the badge. This makes it so that anyone at the club is far from a new face that needs time to be incorporated. Instead, everyone already knows what to expect and can take comfort in already being familiar with what the vision is.
Direct comments on the issue from Aston Villa boss
While speaking with Birmingham Live, the Villa boss discussed how other teams have an inherent advantage and head start. During his comments, Emery was specifically discussing the race within the EPL for a spot in Europe. Granted, he also mentioned Newcastle United, who are not part of the 'big six.' The principle remains, as the two other sides he mentioned, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, certainly are, and the idea holds for the other four, of course.
It is here, however, that Emery then also mentions how important the structure at Villa is. In other words, not looking to only focus on bringing in someone new allows for predictability and for the buy-in to continue. This may be what the club chooses to use as a blueprint moving forward.
In a world with PSR and SCR and the known disadvantages by virtue of not being a member of the 'big six,' this may ultimately prove to be the antidote for the perceived 'smaller clubs.'