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Bologna boss Vincenzo Italiano says Aston Villa are the strongest team in the Europa League , but he wants his side to show them less respect than last season.

The Italian outfit lost 2-0 in B6 11 months ago after second half goals from John McGinn and Jhon Duran , and their manager claims that they were too timid under the Villa Park lights.

Villa, managed by Unai Emery, who has won four Europa League titles, are the bookies' favourites to win the competition, despite having problems at the start of the season, failing to win any of their opening six matches.

"We're starting right away against what I think is the strongest team in the tournament,” Italiano said. “We need a high-level performance. Last year, they had pace and speed, I don't think it'll be much different

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