Should Aston Villa and Unai Emery switch to a system with three centre-backs?

The whispers from Bodymoor Heath have begun to solidify into a discernible pattern: Unai Emery is experimenting. As Aston Villa’s pre-season fixtures for the 2025-26 campaign kick off, a recurring tactical theme has emerged – the deployment of three centre-backs. This notable shift from the established back-four, which has been the bedrock of Villa’s recent successes, raises a compelling question: is this merely a pre-season laboratory test, or a genuine strategic pivot for the season ahead?

Emery’s tactical acumen is well-documented, marked by his meticulous approach and willingness to adapt. While his Villa tenure has largely seen variations of a 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1, the early glimpses of a three-at-the-back setup suggest a deeper consideration. The potential benefits are multifaceted. Defensively, it provides greater solidity, particularly in central areas, offering more cover against potent attacking units and allowing full-backs to push higher, transforming into wing-backs. This could be crucial in mitigating counter-attacks and providing width in possession. For a team aiming to compete on multiple fronts – domestic and potentially European – increased defensive robustness without sacrificing offensive thrust could be a significant advantage. It also offers a platform for players like Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Diego Carlos to all feature prominently, potentially leveraging the depth in Villa’s central defensive options.

However, a switch to three centre-backs is not without its challenges. It fundamentally alters the demands on the wide players, who must possess exceptional stamina and defensive discipline to cover the entire flank. The central midfield also needs to adapt, potentially operating as a double pivot with greater responsibility for protecting the defence and initiating attacks. Emery's ability to seamlessly integrate new tactical concepts into his squad will be tested. Pre-season is the ideal proving ground for such changes, allowing players to acclimatise and for the coaching staff to fine-tune roles and responsibilities without the immediate pressure of competitive points. The success of this potential transition will hinge on the recruitment strategy to complement the system and the players' buy-in, ensuring they understand the nuances of their new positions.