The Premier League may have come to a halt due to the international break, but Aston Villa certainly haven't.
Unai Emery's squad have flown to Spain for a brief but carefully planned training camp designed to sharpen them for a big end to the season.
The Villans are currently fourth, just one point off third, and with a Europa League quarterfinal against Bologna looming, this trip is no holiday. This is very strategic for Emery and his team.
Why did Villa choose Murcia?
Marca gave details of the training camp in a report todayAfter being allowed to see behind the curtain. And they were impressed by what they saw.
According to the Spanish newspaper, the day starts early. The players travel from their rooms to the training pitch for a session led by Paco Eyestaran. Unai Emery later took over proceedings.
Although there is an open-air gym, music and a relaxed atmosphere, all this disappears once the practice begins. Emery spends the season constantly improving, adjusting and pushing.
The brakes aren't really brakes. The work continues, with young players given 'ghost jobs', detailed, individual improvements designed to make them the best they can be.
Marca say 'the first thing that catches your attention' is the physique of the Premier League outfit. They are like rocks, built for the demands of Europe's toughest league.
Life at Hilton La Torre
At the hotel, Hilton La Torre, the routine is absolutely structured. Three traveling chefs oversee nutrition, making sure everyone is properly fueled.
The team has a total of 60 people, including players, coaches, trainers, staff, security personnel, cooks and press.
Between sessions there is time for golf, time to relax in the sun and time for recovery work in specific facilities.
The atmosphere is quiet, but the objective is clear; Keep Aston Villa sharp, ready and competitive between now and the end of the season.
elite plan
It may be a trip to Spain, but it's no fun trip for Aston Villa. It's not about relaxation. It's about preparation.
Emery and his side know what is about to happen and 'no one lets their guard down.' Marca emphasizes that there is no magic formula, just hard work, planning and skill.
This will be crucial in a race that includes striving for the Champions League and European knockout ties. Whether this works as expected will be determined at the end of the season.
