LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - JULY 26: Unai Emery manager / head coach of Aston Villa with set-piece coach Austin MacPhee during the pre-season friendly match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Aston Villa at Lynn Family Stadium on July 26, 2025 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Neville Williams/Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)
Aston Villa’s set-piece coach, Austin MacPhee, was notably absent from the touchline during a thrilling match against Manchester City, where Matty Cash delivered a stunning opener. Cash scored just before the 20-minute mark, skillfully converting a corner with precision that left City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma with no chance.
While the goal showcased Villa’s tactical prowess, MacPhee’s lack of visibility raised questions among fans and commentators. Known for his involvement in set-piece strategies, MacPhee typically enjoys the spotlight during such moments. However, he was not present to celebrate the goal in person.
MacPhee’s Injury Explained
Following Cash’s remarkable strike, Sky Sports provided an update revealing MacPhee’s situation. The Scottish coach, who also serves as assistant head coach for the Portugal National Team under Roberto Martinez, has been sidelined due to a patella injury sustained while on duty with the national team. Images broadcasted during the game showed him seated in the technical area, iPad by his side and wearing a leg support.
Commentator Bill Leslie noted MacPhee’s upbeat demeanor despite his injury, indicating that he remains engaged with the team’s performance. His absence from the touchline did not hinder the team’s execution of their set-piece routines, which have become a hallmark of Villa’s play style.
Impact on Team Dynamics
MacPhee’s contributions to Aston Villa’s tactics are significant, and his absence raises important considerations for the team’s dynamics. While head coach Unai Emery leads the team on the pitch, MacPhee’s innovative strategies in set pieces help create scoring opportunities. As other teams also increasingly utilize set-piece coaches, Villa’s approach under MacPhee has gained recognition for its effectiveness.
Although MacPhee may not have been physically present during the match, his influence was felt through the team’s performance. Villa’s ability to adapt and continue executing successful routines, even in his absence, is a testament to the foundational work he has established within the club.
As the club and its fans wish MacPhee a swift recovery, his role and expertise remain pivotal in shaping Aston Villa’s future successes. The team’s next match will be an opportunity to see how they continue to evolve without one of their key tactical minds on the touchline.
