Five Villa legends set to appear at Witton Arms book launch event
Several Claret and Blue legends will be joining renowned football journalist Guillem Balagué for the launch of his new book about Unai Emery.
The Spanish author has chosen The Witton Arms to launch Rise of the Villans: Inside Unai Emery’s Aston Villa Revolution next Wednesday.
Balagué, will be joined by Ian Taylor, Andy Townsend, Stiliyan Petrov, Alan McNally and James Chester. Between them, the five players made more than 750 appearances in claret and blue and will share personal memories, behind-the-scenes stories, and reflections on what makes the club so special.
Several of Unai’s backroom staff including Unai’s assistant Pako Ayestaran to their inhouse chef will be explaining how standards are met for their manager's demands.
The event will raise funds for grassroots football at Biggleswade United, the non-league club where Balagué is chairman. There will also be chances to win prizes such as signed boots, shirts and even Emi Martinez’s goalkeeper gloves with a raffle, with the proceeds going directly to Birmingham’s Children’s Hospital. Alongside all of this there will be music from True Adventures as well as comedy from Villa fan, James Dowdeswell.
Kiran Chavda, owner of The Witton Arms said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be hosting this one-of-a-kind evening. Villa Park is part of our DNA here, so to welcome legends of the club alongside Guillem Balagué feels really special. We know the Villa football family will make it a night to remember.”
Guillem said: “I’ve spent the past two years not only delving deep into the story of Unai Emery, but also uncovering the wider tale of Aston Villa. This is the most in-depth book I’ve written, and on this special night I’ll be sharing stories from it — and from my career in football.
"It’s a real honour to have five Villa legends joining me, and they didn’t hesitate for a second to say yes. With live music from Sam and comedy from James, both passionate Villa fans, I can promise this will be the biggest Villa night of the year outside Villa Park.
"We’re down to the final tickets — so don’t miss out, book now!”
Tickets are available online or in person at The Witton Arms.
