London City Lionesses head coach Eder Maestre is refusing to underestimate Aston Villa this weekend, despite the Villans' rocky recent form. As The Pride prepare to host their opponents at The Copperjax Community Stadium for the final Barclays Women's Super League fixture of the season, Maestre knows that a struggling team can still pack a punch.

Aston Villa have managed just one win in their last 10 games across all competitions, but Maestre isn't buying into the idea that they're an easy target. "They are creating chances, but it's about taking them and having a bit of luck," he said in the pre-match press conference. "They've been very inconsistent. They can get a bad result against Tottenham and then turn around and beat Manchester City a few days later. We have to take that into consideration because they can be very dangerous."

With the league's second-top scorer in their ranks and lightning-fast players on the wings, Villa have the tools to trouble any defence. "It's about the margins," Maestre added. "It's a tough league where everyone can beat everyone. It's the best competition in the world and the most exciting to watch."

This weekend's clash also carries a personal touch for Maestre, as he goes up against former colleague Natalia Arroyo. The two previously worked together at Real Sociedad, and Maestre is looking forward to reuniting—even as opponents. "Natalia has been a very important person in my life. I spent one of the best years of my professional career with her. She is a friend, and I'm very excited to face her. I really appreciate everything she has shared with me, and she helped put me in a good place to get my contract with Tenerife. I will always be grateful."

As Maestre wraps up his first half-season at London City Lionesses, he reflects on a journey that's been anything but smooth. "It's been a rollercoaster. The first few weeks were difficult because of the language barrier. It was hard to communicate and build the connections that matter," he said. "But we've moved forward fast, and the team is starting to reflect my philosophy." With the season finale on the horizon, The Pride will be looking to finish strong—and prove they can handle whatever danger Aston Villa throws their way.