Emery highly values Mbaye who has integrated well into his system

According to RMC journalist Fabrice Hawkins, Aston Villa coach Unai Emery is a big admirer of Ibrahim Mbaye.

Last summer, Ibrahim Mbaye moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Aston Villa for 55 million euros. The 18-year-old Senegalese forward is making a name for himself in England and has integrated well into Unai Emery's tactical system, with a promising future ahead.

On Wednesday, in Aston Villa's 3-1 Champions League victory over Viking, Mbaye started as a left winger and provided an assist, further solidifying his growing influence at Villa. This performance exemplifies how Emery has gradually increased his playing time since the summer transfer, giving him two consecutive starts in European competitions with two assists.

The experienced coach knows that nothing can be rushed, especially for a talented young player like Mbaye. This approach mirrors Real Madrid's strategy with Yan Diomande, whom they signed for 140 million euros (including bonuses) this summer. The Ivorian defender is only now establishing himself in José Mourinho's starting lineup. Similarly, Ayyoub Bouaddi, who transferred from Lille for 100 million euros, is gradually getting playing time under Enzo Maresca.

During the last international break, Ibrahim Mbaye proved his value to the Senegalese national team, scoring the winning goal in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Ethiopia. He has earned the full trust of Aston Villa's coaching staff and club leadership, with his Premier League performances reflecting the high expectations placed upon him.

His move to Aston Villa should allow him to reach new heights. At Paris Saint-Germain, despite his evident talent, Luis Enrique preferred other player types, limiting Mbaye's opportunities to substitute appearances. Even with injuries to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (torn ACL in his right knee) and Ousmane Dembélé's muscle problems, he remained sidelined.

Aston Villa, after a slow start to the season, has found their form. The Birmingham club currently sits twelfth in the Premier League and remains unbeaten in the Champions League with three wins, placing them second overall, just behind Paris Saint-Germain. This Saturday's home match against Premier League leaders Manchester City will be a crucial test for both the club and Ibrahim Mbaye.