Villa’s Manzambi shows Newcastle what they missed out on
Johan Manzambi scored the only goal as Aston Villa beat Newcastle 1-0, making an immediate mark after turning down a move to St James’ Park. The 21-year-old’s winner underlined his importance to Unai Emery’s rebuilt side and gave Newcastle a reminder of a transfer target they missed.
Manzambi headed in Joao Gomes’ cross from eight yards, taking his Villa tally to three goals. Since making his first start on 19 September, he has been involved in five goals in all competitions, with only Erling Haaland recording more among Premier League players in that period. Villa’s unbeaten run reached five matches, lifting them to 12th after they had collected just one point from their opening four league games.
- Manzambi headed Villa’s winner in a 1-0 victory over Newcastle.
- He had turned down Newcastle to join Villa for just over £50m.
- Villa are unbeaten in five matches and have climbed to 12th.