Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi, who turned 21 on Wednesday, scored his third goal in Aston Villa colours with the winner in a 1-0 victory over Newcastle. The player had looked set for a move to St James' Park before opting to join Villa in a club record deal of just over £50m.
Manzambi headed in the winner on Saturday, unmarked inside the area when found by Joao Gomes' excellent cross. This follows his previous goals in a 3-2 win at Tottenham and a 6-0 thrashing of Fenerbahce in the Champions League, earning high praise from manager Unai Emery for his intelligence and physical qualities.
His impressive performances over the past year have also earned Manzambi a spot on a 10-man shortlist for the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the world's best player aged under 21. Since his first start for Aston Villa on September 19, only Manchester City's Erling Haaland has been involved in more goals among Premier League players.
The victory over Newcastle extended Aston Villa's unbeaten run in all competitions to five matches. It moves the club up to 12th in the Premier League while also maintaining strong momentum in the Champions League and the Carabao Cup.
