After hitting upon a winning formula - other than champions Manchester City, no team has accrued more Premier League points than Aston Villa in 2023 - there is clearly no need for a radical overhaul this summer.
While the Villans' squad will have to be trimmed and several new players brought in to cope with the rigours of a potential Thursday-Sunday fixture schedule - should they enter the Europa Conference League group stage via a playoff - retention is perhaps the most important item on Unai Emery's agenda.
Douglas Luiz has finally fulfilled his potential, and following his failed move to Arsenal and then a spell locked outside the starting XI, the Brazil international is a constant source of inspiration in the Villa midfield.
Elsewhere, goalkeeping colossus Emiliano Martinez may have his detractors due to time-wasting antics and so on, but his presence in goal - and in the dressing room - offers assurance on days when the back four are not fully up to speed.
Both must be persuaded to extend their stays in Birmingham despite inevitable interest from clubs across Europe, with a handful of quality arrivals - ideally near the start of the transfer window - demonstrating to the South American duo that Villa really do mean business.
Young Colombian striker Jhon Duran has demonstrated promise in several cameo appearances since joining in January, but further competition for Ollie Watkins will be a priority, while adding a ball-playing centre-back to the mix could help Villa step up another level.
Certainly not afraid to spend, given their track record to date, the club owners are sure to back their boss financially, so there can be no excuses for taking a backwards step next season.
Jonathan O'Shea
