Aston Villa’s recent rise in the Premier League owes much to an unassuming figure in midfield: Boubacar Kamara. The 26-year-old French international has quietly established himself as one of the league’s most effective midfielders, a player whose influence is often understated but crucial to Villa’s results.
Kamara’s Impact on Villa’s Performance
Kamara’s importance was evident during Villa’s 11-game winning streak, which equalled the club record. When he was suspended for the recent clash against Arsenal, Villa suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat, highlighting how pivotal he is to the team’s balance. Despite that setback, Aston Villa remain third in the Premier League, a position that reflects the stunning success of their campaign so far. Kamara is expected to return for Saturday’s clash against Nottingham Forest, a key fixture as Villa aim to maintain their top-four challenge.
From Marseille to Villa: A Smart Acquisition
Kamara arrived on a free transfer from Marseille in January 2022, following a long period of scouting and analysis by Villa’s staff. The club, then managed by Steven Gerrard, recognized a need for a holding midfielder capable of providing defensive stability while allowing creative players like John McGinn more freedom.
Having played in multiple roles at Marseille—including centre-back early in his career—Kamara demonstrated positional intelligence, composure, and technical skill, making him an ideal fit for the Premier League. Despite concerns over injuries, including a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in February 2024, Villa’s scouts were confident Kamara could withstand the rigours of top-flight English football.
“We extended his contract last summer because we know his capacity and potential. He is still young,” said Unai Emery, Villa’s head coach.
Kamara’s Key Attributes
Kamara’s game is defined by positional discipline, technical ability, and defensive intelligence. While not the flashiest player on the pitch, his contributions are measurable:
- 179 passes into the final third, with an 82.1% accuracy rate
- 672 passes in the league, second only to Ezri Konsa at Villa
- 31 tackles and 69 ground duels won, demonstrating defensive reliability
- 31 aerial duels won, leading the team
Villa’s results statistics underline his value: the team wins 76% of matches with Kamara on the field, compared to just 44% without him.
Influence Beyond the Stats
Kamara’s influence goes beyond numbers. He makes those around him better, providing a platform for teammates to excel. Players like Douglas Luiz and John McGinn have praised his ability to control the midfield, with McGinn calling him “one of the best midfielders in Europe.” His understated style allows Villa to operate with tactical flexibility, maintaining balance between defensive solidity and attacking creativity.
Emery Reaping the Rewards
While Gerrard brought Kamara to Villa, it is current manager Unai Emery who has fully unlocked his potential. Emery’s structured system values Kamara’s ability to perform unglamorous but essential work—covering space, breaking up opposition attacks, and transitioning play efficiently. The midfielder’s return from injury and a new five-year contract last summer underscore Emery’s belief in him as a foundational piece for the team.
“He has been fantastic since coming back from injury, and his progression means he is playing better and better,” Emery added.
The Value of Kamara’s Contribution
Kamara’s rise illustrates how Premier League clubs can gain exceptional value from intelligent scouting and recruitment. Signed on a free transfer, he has become arguably Villa’s best bargain in recent years. His ability to combine defensive duties with precise passing makes him almost unique in English football, and his quiet leadership continues to drive Villa’s success in 2025-26.
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