On November 10, Lindelof confirmed a one-year contract extension with Aston Villa. In an interview, he discussed his feelings about the extension, his experiences over the past year, working with Emery, and his responsibilities within the team and goals for the new season.
Good morning, Viktor. Let's start with some good news: you've signed a new contract, extending your current deal by another year. How do you feel about that?
Of course, I'm very, very happy. I've really enjoyed my time here since I signed. It feels great to be able to extend for another year. As I said, I'm really happy here.
The past year has been quite special for you. You joined the team as a free agent on the transfer deadline day in 2025; then, you started in the Europa League final, helping the club win a European title for the first time in 44 years and qualify for the Champions League. You also captained the Swedish national team in the World Cup. It's been a very fruitful year.
Yes, it's definitely been a good year. Obviously, the summer break was quite long, but I think that also allowed my body to get enough rest. I had a difficult period with frequent injuries before, so this rest period also helped me.
Overall, I think it was a very good year. Of course, I'm very, very happy to have helped the club win an important trophy. I also feel very honored to be a part of it and to help write the club's history.
Have these achievements exceeded your expectations? How has Emery helped you perform at your best?
He demands a lot from players, and I think he's very good at unleashing their potential. It's been an honor to work with him during this time, and I'm very happy to continue our collaboration.
Of course, he's also one of the reasons I decided to extend my contract, because I really enjoy working with him. I feel like I can fully utilize my strengths on the field, and I know exactly how he wants me to play. That makes playing much easier for me.
So, now I'm just doing my best, as always, to help the team.
This season, you've started every Premier League and Champions League match, becoming an indispensable part of the team's central defense. How much do you enjoy taking on that responsibility?
It's always a pleasure to get playing opportunities. After all, that's what playing football is all about – playing in important matches and playing for the team every week.
There have been many matches this season, but I also enjoy this pace. As I said, that's why we play football. Of course, you have to take care of your body, and I'm doing my best to do that.
I'm a team player, and I'm happy to be on the field helping the team. I hope to stay healthy and continue contributing to the team throughout the season.
The team signed many young players this summer. Do you feel you've taken on more leadership responsibilities? Do you enjoy this role?
I always try my best to help my teammates, especially the younger players. I've been through that stage myself, when more experienced players proactively helped and guided me.
I think this is very important, especially when new players join the team. Therefore, I will try to help as much as possible.
Of course, we also have many excellent players and leaders in our team who can also take on such responsibilities. But whenever the team needs me, I am always willing to step up and do my best to help and support my teammates.
The season has just begun, but considering last season's achievements, it might be difficult to achieve the same outstanding results. So, what are your expectations or goals for the team's next chapter?
Of course, there are. You always want to play at the highest level, you want to win games, and you want to have the chance to compete for titles in all competitions. That's always our pursuit, and it's our goal and dream.
However, as I said, the season is still long. Therefore, throughout the season, the most important thing is to focus on playing one game at a time. I know that's easy to say, but it's really important. Don't look too far ahead.
So, my current goal is to win as many games as possible, go as far as possible in every competition, and at the same time, try to ensure that the team is in a strong position in the Premier League. This is our main goal and pursuit.
Hopefully, we can achieve that in the end.
Davichi
1
Congratulations to him. He's doing so well with them.