Unai Emery says Aston Villa are gunning for a trophy in his 'area' of expertise, while Youri Tielemans is 'feeling the love' from new manager

When it comes to cup success, few modern managers can match the CV of Unai Emery.

And the Spaniard is backing himself - and a vastly improved Aston Villa squad - to bring the club its first trophy since 1996.

'For us to play in the FA Cup, in Carabao Cap - thinking it's a way for a trophy,' he told Mail Sport exclusively on the club's US tour. 'It's my area, and in Conference League I think we have to do the same.

'Try to be demanding, facing the possibility to win a trophy. And then it's the Premier League, we have to be consistent.'

After finishing seventh and booking a spot in the UEFA Conference League qualifying round, Villa have an extra competition on their plate this season.

And who better for that challenge than Emery?

The 51-year-old is a master navigator of knockout competitions, with four Europa League titles, two Coupe de Frances and two Coupe de la Ligues showing he is savvy in the format.

Of course, advancing to the Conference League group stage in late August would mean a more congested schedule for Villa.

But after a busy summer transfer window, Emery is relishing the chance to showcase his squad depth.

'We will need everybody, we will need every player, and they are going to have minutes to play,' he said ahead of his team's Premier League Summer Series clash with Brentford today.

Newly-signed center-back Pau Torres is an Emery favorite from their Villareal days, Moussa Diaby will push for a starting spot in the attack and Youri Tielemans joined from a relegated Leicester to add composure to an already-strong midfield.

The Belgian, who's made 60 appearances for his country, would not have been short on options for his next move but was drawn to what Emery is building at Villa.

'The manager was really big as well,