Aston Villa have announced plans to take legal action against pundit Jamie Carragher, accusing the former Liverpool defender of making unacceptable remarks about the club and its supporters.

The Premier League side’s decision follows comments made by Carragher on the Stick to Football podcast, during which he told Villa fans to “shut the fuck up” and insisted that “Aston Villa will never be Manchester United”.

Carragher also addressed speculation surrounding Villa manager Unai Emery and the possibility of him taking charge of Manchester United if an opportunity to join the Old Trafford club emerged.

Villa chairman Nassef Sawiris confirmed the club’s intention to pursue legal action, making it clear that the comments had crossed a line.

“Aston Villa will initiate legal action against Jamie Carragher for his unacceptable insults about the club and its fans,” Sawiris said.

He also emphasised the club’s determination to continue its progress in domestic and European football, adding: “Aston Villa will not allow anyone to stop our ascension in English and European football.”

Aston Villa have not yet clarified the specific legal grounds for their proposed action against Carragher. The club also did not immediately respond to a request for further comment.

Carragher has similarly yet to issue a direct response to Villa’s legal threat. However, the former Liverpool defender has attempted to calm the situation, insisting that his remarks were intended as a joke rather than a serious criticism of the club.

“It was a joke after the stick Villa fans have given me over saying Emery may fancy joining Man Utd,” Carragher wrote on social media.

He also encouraged supporters to look at his previous comments praising Emery and Aston Villa, highlighting his positive reaction to their Europa League triumph in Istanbul in 2026.

Carragher further explained that his remarks were intended to reflect his admiration for Emery rather than disrespect towards the club. He reiterated his belief that the Spanish coach is among the finest managers currently working in the Premier League.