Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery maintained that the club’s current injury challenges would not serve as an excuse ahead of their Champions League group stage match against Norwegian side Viking on Tuesday. Despite several key players sidelined, Emery emphasized the team’s readiness and determination to secure a victory at home.

Villa are coping with a notable injury list, which includes Johan Manzambi, who sustained a minor injury after scoring the winning goal in Saturday’s Premier League win over Newcastle United. Matteo Ruggeri, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Amadou Onana are also unavailable for selection due to fitness concerns. However, Emery expressed confidence in the squad’s depth and ability to adapt.

“We are accepting of the injuries we had before. We have enough players, no excuses, and we’ll find solutions, collectively and individually in each position,” Emery said ahead of the match.

The English side enters the fixture in strong form after delivering a 6-0 victory against Fenerbahce last week in their opening Champions League group match. Villa currently hold six points from two games, placing them in a favorable position in the group. Despite being heavy favorites, Emery cautioned against underestimating Viking, who impressed by drawing 3-3 with Bayern Munich last week.

“Viking are a new team as well with a capacity to draw with Bayern Munich and compete against Stuttgart and compete against us. This is the Champions League, and it is very difficult,” Emery noted.

The Norwegian team sits second in their domestic league, level on points with league leaders Bodo/Glimt. Emery stressed the competitive nature of the European tournament and acknowledged that every team participating has earned their place and poses a potential threat.

“Every team that plays Champions League [plays it] because they deserve it, and they are dangerous," he said. “Europe is always very difficult. Each team is very respectful for us.”

Villa will be aiming to maintain their perfect record in the group and reinforce their position as group favorites in the upcoming fixture.