Aston Villa boss Unai Emery makes support plea ahead of Leeds United clash

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Byadmin
February 16, 2026

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery makes support plea ahead of Leeds United clash

Leeds United are set for a tough Premier League test when they make the trip to face next Saturday afternoon.

Villa boss has called on the home crowd to bring the intensity at , insisting their support will be crucial as his side look to bounce back from FA Cup disappointment against .

The two teams head into the fixture on the back of very different weekends in the . Villa were knocked out after a dramatic 3–1 home defeat to , while Leeds edged through on penalties following a demanding away tie against .

For Leeds, the visit represents a major challenge against a Villa side pushing hard for qualification. However, ’s men arrive in encouraging form, with their cup success meaning they have lost just twice in their last 15 matches across all competitions.

That run has boosted belief they can pick up valuable points as they continue their fight for survival in the .

Despite their cup exit, Villa remain firmly in the title conversation and sit only three points behind second-placed .

Emery admitted the loss to Newcastle was a setback but believes lessons can be taken from the performance, particularly with key European and league fixtures ahead, including their push in the .

Speaking to the club’s official website, Emery praised the backing from the stands and urged fans to deliver the same energy against Leeds, stressing how vital their support can be in tight moments.

Meanwhile, Farke reflected honestly on Leeds’ narrow cup victory at Birmingham, admitting his side struggled early on before growing into the contest.

He highlighted tactical adjustments, increased physicality, and strong goalkeeping as key factors, praising his players’ resilience and composure in the penalty shoot-out to secure progression.