Aston Villa stadium Villa Park
Aston Villa sporting director Johan Lange is fearful that the club are attempting to get rid of him, according to an intriguing new update.
The Lowdown: Lange a big figure at Villa
The 43-year-old has been in his current position at Villa Park since 2020, having arrived from Copenhagen after impressing in his role as technical director.
Lange has been an important part of Villa’s transfer business over the years and he has even been described as a ‘hidden hero’ at the club because of the work he has done.
Now, a key update has emerged regarding his future however, after question marks over his transfer dealings in recent windows.
The Latest: Director fearing axe
According to Football Insider, Lange ‘fears’ Villa’s hierarchy are trying to get rid of him, with replacements already being eyed up.
His job is thought to have been ‘under growing threat’ ever since Unai Emery became Villa manager, with the Spaniard wanting a new sporting director with closer ties so he can have a ‘hands-on approach’.
The Verdict: Time for a change?
This is a tricky situation for Villa, with Lange doing plenty of good down the years, playing a key role in some absolute bargain signings like Matty Cash, but he has also shelled out big money for players who are underperforming, such as Philippe Coutinho.
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If Emery wants a replacement to come in for the Swede then it is a decision the club will need to make, considering the importance of the relationship between manager and sporting director.
It may simply be that Lange has taken the club as far as he can in his role and that some fresh ideas are required, and one can only assume that having someone in the role who gets Emery more involved in the recruitment process will be beneficial.
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