According to a report by Metro on Wednesday November 4, 2026, former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has advised Unai Emery to remain at Aston Villa amid speculation linking the Spanish coach with the Manchester United managerial position.

Emery has emerged as one of the potential candidates to replace Michael Carrick at Old Trafford if Manchester United decide to make a change in the dugout following their disappointing start to the season.

Carrick was appointed as United's permanent manager in the summer after guiding the club to an impressive third-place finish last season.

However, the former midfielder has struggled to maintain that form in the current campaign, with United dropping to 17th in the Premier League table.

Although United ended their nine-game winless run with a dramatic 3-2 Champions League victory over Roma on Tuesday, questions remain about Carrick's future.

United are scheduled to face Emery's Aston Villa this weekend, with the Spaniard attracting attention because of the work he has done at Villa Park.

However, Benitez believes his compatriot should think carefully before considering a move to Old Trafford, insisting that he already has the backing and support needed to build a successful project at Aston Villa.

Speaking to talkSPORT, the former Liverpool manager explained why Emery should not be in a hurry to leave his current position.

"I had six years at Liverpool, three at Newcastle, six months at Chelsea and not so much at Everton.

"But I can tell you that if you're at a club where they support you, they give you almost everything that you need, you can build something and Unai is already doing that," Benitez said.

The Spaniard further advised Emery to continue his work at Villa and only consider other opportunities in the future if he fails to achieve his ambitions.

"So I think it is a time for him to continue doing that and later on see.

"In a couple of years, if he cannot get what he wants, his aspirations or his targets, maybe he has to consider other things.

"But to find now an owner, the fans, everybody loves you, and then they give you support, it's quite difficult to find," he added.

Benitez also believes Emery deserves greater recognition in Spain for his achievements as a manager.

The 55-year-old has enjoyed considerable success during his managerial career, including his spells at Sevilla and Villarreal before taking charge of Aston Villa.

According to Benitez, Spanish football does not always give enough recognition to its own managers, with foreign coaches often receiving greater praise for their achievements.

Meanwhile, Carrick has insisted that Manchester United must build on their comeback victory against Roma when they return to Premier League action.

The United manager admitted that the result was important for the club but stressed that his players must show consistency if they are to improve their position in the league.

The upcoming meeting with Aston Villa will therefore be another important test for Carrick, while speculation surrounding Emery's future at Villa Park is likely to continue.