Aston Villa have gatecrashed the European elite, finishing fourth, sixth and fourth in the past three seasons under Unai Emery. Their consistent disruption of the top order represents the club's best run for decades, but now comes the hard part: maintaining that upward trajectory while navigating financial constraints and an aging squad.

Villa must comply with both Premier League and UEFA financial regulations, requiring player sales to balance the books. Morgan Rogers leads the exit list, with Arsenal interested in the player bought from Middlesbrough for £16m. A £100m sale would trigger a £16.8m sell-on fee for Boro - a record for the Championship club.

Evann Guessand could join Crystal Palace permanently for around £28m, while Leon Bailey will be allowed to leave. Villa need to strengthen with a winger, right-back who can play centre-back, and more physical presence at left-back. Long-term target Harvey Barnes may prove costly after his 16-goal season.

Revenue constraints remain severe - £276m in 2023-24 lags well behind the traditional top six. The club avoided sanctions by selling their women's team and entertainment hub, while ticket prices rose 5% with Champions League tickets reaching £99. Despite Champions League qualification, UEFA restrictions may limit spending power next season.

The step to take Villa forwards on the pitch is the hardest, with Emery seeking immediate impact players while president of football operations Roberto Olabe targets younger prospects for the future.