Only under three months ago, Aston Villa were winless and sitting in the relegation zone of the Premier League.
Now, however, spearheaded by boss Unai Emery, they hold third place with growing discussion surrounding their potential role in the title race.
Saturday's thrilling conclusion against league leaders Arsenal highlighted their capabilities, with the 2-1 victory marking Emery's 63rd Premier League win – a record in the club's annals.
From his 162 matches in charge, Emery boasts a win rate of 54.94%.
Additionally, in the current campaign, only Arsenal and Manchester City have accumulated more points (71) than Villa's haul of 67 from 34 outings.
This change is particularly noteworthy given the team's start to the campaign, which saw them struggling, eliminated of the Carabao Cup, and the last team in the Football League to score a goal.
Doubts were raised about Emery's approach after a summer where spending power was restricted by profit and sustainability rules.
What exactly has Emery changed to ignite this revival? The simple answer is nothing.
The workaholic Spaniard has shown the courage to stick to his beliefs and navigate his team through early-season problems.
There was a sense that the club was lacking energy, beyond in terms of results. The rapid rise under Emery in previous years had heightened expectations immensely.
Exhaustion from their progress to the Champions League quarter-finals seemed contagious, affecting both the stands and the pitch.
"I am not thinking about it [the title]," Emery said after the impressive win over Arsenal. "I know 38 matches is very difficult. We are not considered a contender."
Emery views the training complex at Bodymoor Heath as a sanctuary, with a intense of concentration demanded from everyone.
He has remained steadfast, even as star striker Ollie Watkins struggled for goals initially.
The level of influence he possesses at Villa Park is significant – a situation he did not have during his stints at Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain.
This structure has enabled his meticulous processes, from training sessions to video analysis, to stay consistent and eventually bear fruit.
Having adhered to his game plan, the results are now shining through.
Villa have won nine of their last ten Premier League games.
A look at their most recent five top-flight fixtures reveals telling advancements:
While it required Villa time to get going, Unai Emery has proved to be their greatest asset and spearheaded their charge in genuinely remarkable style.
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