Amadou Onana’s ‘amazing’ Aston Villa debut: All the key stats and reaction

Amadou Onana’s Aston Villa debut could scarcely have gone any better.

Following a €59 million transfer from Everton in the summer, the midfielder took only four minutes to open the scoring for Unai Emery’s club against West Ham in the Premier League.

Doubts had been cast over his ability to replace Douglas Luiz for the Villans due to a perceived lack of offensive quality, yet his instant contribution dispelled some of those doubts.

Onana timed his run to thump home a Youri Tielemans corner perfectly, and while the defending left something to be desired, it set the Belgium up to produce the best Premier League debut of the opening weekend to date.

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Onana’s Aston Villa debut in numbers

FootballCritic scored Onana’s performance at 8.2, which was a reflection of the impact he had at both ends of the field.

His contribution was, of course, largely defensive. Onana was restricted to only 48 touches yet he was not wasteful in possession. He completed 97% of his passes, which was a game-high figure among all players who started. Possession was given up by the former Everton midfielder only four times.

It will be, however, on his defensive numbers that his game is primarily judged. He won nine of 15 duels, one of two tackles and three of seven aerials. Furthermore, he completed two interceptions and recovered possession on six occasions – a joint match-leading figure among outfield players.

What was said?

Amadou Onana (Sky Sports): “It was amazing. I couldn’t have it better.

“The fans have been unbelievable. I like to be at traditional clubs with a big history. I enjoyed myself and it’s a lovely moment.”

On his goal: “I’m the main target. My teammates are creating the space for me to come running. Michail Antonio’s a big man who’s hard to get rid of, but I managed it.”

Jamie Redknapp (Sky Sports): “He’s very happy here. The style of football’s going to suit him. It wasn’t always easy for him at Everton. He didn’t do as well as they’d have liked.

“He threatened both boxes, he was comfortable on the ball. He’s 6ft4 and he’s so difficult to mark as we saw.”