‘Perfect for me’ – Johan Manzambi explains Aston Villa choice after Newcastle winner

Johan Manzambi has declared that joining Aston Villa was the right decision after scoring the decisive goal in a 1-0 Premier League victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Saturday.

The Switzerland international, who was reportedly close to joining Newcastle before Unai Emery’s side intervened, settled the contest against his former suitors with a first-half header to extend Villa’s impressive run of form.

Manzambi arrived at Villa following an outstanding World Cup campaign with Switzerland, scoring three goals and providing one assist in four appearances to attract interest from several clubs.

Newcastle were reportedly on the verge of securing his signature before Villa moved in to complete the deal, setting up an intriguing subplot when the teams met on Saturday.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, the 21-year-old expressed his satisfaction with his decision to join Emery’s team, highlighting the quality of the squad and the manager’s influence.

“The team was really good. I played against this team in the final (of the Europa League) and it’s a very good team with a big coach and I knew that was perfect for me,” he said.

Reflecting on his match-winning contribution, Manzambi added: “I’m very happy to score today and I hope the next game both of us can score. But the most important (thing) is the three points.”

The midfielder was substituted after picking up a knock but allayed concerns over the issue.

“It wasn’t cramp it was a kick but it’s OK. I have a little bit of pain but it’s OK now,” he explained.

Manzambi punishes Newcastle as Villa strike first

Villa broke the deadlock in the 36th minute after weathering Newcastle’s early pressure without conceding a clear-cut opportunity.

The hosts dominated possession and pressed aggressively during the opening half-hour but struggled to turn their territorial advantage into meaningful chances.

Villa, meanwhile, threatened on the counter-attack, with Nicolas Jackson unable to capitalise on opportunities to trouble the Newcastle defence.

The breakthrough arrived when Joao Gomes delivered a cross towards the far post, where Manzambi found himself unmarked and headed beyond Lukas Hornicek.

The goal exposed Newcastle’s defensive shortcomings and extended their unwanted record of conceding in 13 consecutive home matches in the Premier League.

Villa nearly doubled their advantage moments later when Emiliano Buendia struck a low effort against the base of the post, leaving Newcastle fortunate to escape further damage before half-time.

Newcastle rally but Villa hold firm

Newcastle showed greater attacking intent after the interval as they searched for an equaliser, but Villa maintained their defensive discipline to protect their lead.

Sven Botman came closest to restoring parity with a powerful effort that goalkeeper Zion Suzuki turned wide.

The home side continued to push forward, yet clear opportunities remained limited as Villa resisted their attempts to break through.

Ross Barkley almost settled the contest with a powerful strike, only for Hornicek to produce an important save to keep Newcastle within reach.

The hosts launched a late assault in search of a point, but Yoane Wissa failed to convert two opportunities, sending both efforts wide of the target.

Villa survived the pressure to claim all three points and continue their resurgence, reinforcing the belief that they can challenge strongly again despite significant departures during the summer transfer window.

Newcastle’s home struggles deepen

The defeat represented another setback for Newcastle, who have now lost successive home league matches against Villa for the first time since 1958.

Their inability to turn sustained pressure into goals will concern manager Eddie Howe, particularly after the team entered the match seeking a response to recent disappointing results.

Villa, meanwhile, have now gone four matches without defeat against Newcastle, underlining their growing dominance in the fixture.