Paragraph 1: A New Chapter for Guessand
Evann Guessand, the 24-year-old Ivorian international, embarks on a new chapter in his football career, leaving his formative club, Nice, to join Aston Villa in the English Premier League. This transfer marks a significant step for the young forward, who has steadily risen through the ranks, showcasing his talent and potential in Ligue 1. His signing represents Unai Emery’s fifth acquisition of the summer transfer window, highlighting Aston Villa’s ambition and their manager’s keen eye for talent. The move to the Premier League offers Guessand a larger stage and a chance to further refine his skills under the tutelage of a highly respected manager.
Paragraph 2: Emery’s Influence and Guessand’s Aspiration
Unai Emery’s reputation as a coach who nurtures and improves players played a pivotal role in attracting Guessand to Aston Villa. The Ivorian forward openly acknowledged the significance of his conversations with Emery, stating that the manager’s vision and track record were key factors in his decision. Guessand recognizes the opportunity to learn and grow under Emery’s guidance, expressing his desire to further develop his skills and reach his full potential. This mutual respect and shared ambition between player and manager bode well for a successful partnership.
Paragraph 3: A Journey of Development and Breakthrough
Guessand’s football journey began in the youth academy of Nice, where he honed his skills before making his senior debut in 2020. Loan spells at Lausanne-Sport and Nantes provided valuable experience and playing time, contributing to his development as a professional footballer. While his early seasons showed promise, it was the 2024/25 campaign that truly marked his breakthrough. Under the management of Franck Haise, Guessand flourished, particularly when deployed on the wing, showcasing his versatility and contributing significantly to Nice’s attacking prowess. This breakout season solidified his reputation as a rising star and caught the attention of Aston Villa.
Paragraph 4: From France to Ivory Coast: International Allegiance
Guessand’s international career has taken an interesting turn. Initially representing France at youth levels, he later chose to represent Ivory Coast, the country of his heritage. This decision reflects a personal connection and a commitment to representing his roots on the global stage. His ten senior caps for Ivory Coast demonstrate his international experience and the value he brings to the national team. His continued development at Aston Villa is likely to further strengthen his position within the Ivorian squad.
Paragraph 5: Statistical Overview and Potential Debut
Guessand’s statistics during his time at Nice provide a clear picture of his contributions and growth. Across all competitions, he made 109 appearances, scoring 21 goals and providing 15 assists. These numbers highlight his ability to both find the back of the net and create opportunities for his teammates. His impressive performance in the 2024/25 Ligue 1 season, with 12 goals and 9 assists, underscores his potential and the impact he could make at Aston Villa. His Premier League debut could potentially come as early as August 16th, when Aston Villa faces Newcastle United, marking the start of a new and exciting chapter in his career.
Paragraph 6: Expectations and Future Prospects
The signing of Evann Guessand represents a promising acquisition for Aston Villa. His versatility, attacking flair, and proven ability to contribute goals and assists make him an exciting addition to the squad. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, he has the potential to further refine his skills and become a key player for Aston Villa. The Premier League provides a demanding yet rewarding environment for young talents, and Guessand’s ambition and commitment suggest he is ready to embrace the challenge. His progress will be closely watched by both Aston Villa supporters and the wider football community. His dedication to continuous improvement and his desire to learn from a top-level coach like Emery signal a bright future for the young Ivorian.
