Aston Villa’s standout star isn't Watkins, Martínez or McGinn – it’s someone else | OneFootball

Boubacar Kamara has transformed into Aston Villa's linchpin since recovering from his long-term injury layoff. The 25-year-old French midfielder, who arrived on a free transfer from Marseille in May 2022, has become an integral part of Villa's success story. His composed presence and tactical versatility have made him an irreplaceable figure in Unai Emery's squad.

Kamara's impact on Villa's performance

The journey to Villa Park began when former manager Steven Gerrard personally flew to Marseille to secure Kamara's signature. For the young midfielder, who grew up watching Gerrard's illustrious career, the chance to work under the Liverpool legend proved too appealing to resist. Though Gerrard's tenure was short-lived, his recruitment of Kamara continues to benefit the club.

Unai Emery quickly identified Kamara's potential as a crucial element in his tactical framework. The midfielder's absence due to injury last season exposed Villa's defensive vulnerabilities and affected their consistency. However, his return sparked an immediate improvement in the team's performances, demonstrating his value in both defensive and attacking situations.

Impressive statistics back Kamara's consistency

Kamara's control of the game's tempo while providing defensive coverage has drawn parallels with Manchester City midfielder Rodri. His tactical intelligence shines through as he seamlessly drops between defensive lines during build-up play, ensuring smooth transitions from defence to attack.

His recent performance against Brentford stands out as a masterclass in midfield efficiency, achieving a remarkable 100% pass completion rate. This level of precision has proved crucial as Villa juggle their domestic league commitments with European competitions.

The silent engine of Villa's success

While teammates Emiliano Martínez, Ollie Watkins, and John McGinn often grab the headlines, Kamara's influence remains equally significant. His ability to excel in both defensive duties and attacking movements allows Emery to adjust tactics based on different opponents.

Now in his prime years, Kamara has attracted attention from major European clubs, making his retention a top priority for Villa's ambitious plans.

As the club pursues Champions League knockouts qualification and another top-four finish, Kamara's blend of defensive stability, tactical awareness, and composure has established him as the backbone of Villa's midfield operations. His consistent displays continue to drive Villa's push toward their season objectives, making him an essential piece in their quest for success.