Aston Villa's Premier League title odds plummet after Man City statement
Aston Villa sent the rest of the Premier League a message when they dismantled Manchester City
by Brian Dick, https://www.facebook.com/blueswriterbriandick/?fref=ts · Birmingham LiveThe manner of Aston Villa’s victory over Manchester City has sent shockwaves through English football.
Some are declaring Unai Emery’s men as authentic title contenders, others are pointing to the issues City had highlighted by a rampant home side.
In the end a deflected late goal from Leon Bailey barely scratched at the surface of Villa’s supremacy, most who watched the game could see just how comprehensively the three-time Premier League champions were outplayed.
As ever, bookmakers are at the vanguard of the response, delivering their own verdict on the Claret & Blues’ title credentials.
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Make no mistake, they’re still considered to be outsiders – but not anything like as much as they were. Bet365 have slashed their odds on Villa claiming a first league crown since 1981.
Before Wednesday’s statement win Villa were 66-1 to become champions – they are now 25-1. Their chances of finishing runners up are down from 33-1 to 16-1.
Whatever Unai Emery and his players say about taking it a game at a time, Guardiola knows a blue-chip opponent when he sees one.
Guardiola was asked about whether Villa were strong contenders. He replied : "Yes, definitely. For the way they are playing, when you are there and you see their physicality, their tempo, their speed, the bench, the organisation from Unai Emery, their high-pressing and middle block, incredible defenders in the back four, goalkeeper. Absolutely."