Villa have moved from relegation candidates to European hopefuls since Emery replaced Steven Gerrard in November.
A run of eight wins from their last 10 games and no defeats recorded sees Villa sixth on the table ahead of facing Manchester United this weekend.
Just six points separate Villa from Manchester United, who have played two games less than their next opponents.
Emery believes Champions League qualification remains difficult at this stage but Villa can still hold on to one of the European spots available in the Europa League or Conference League.
“The last step is to keep in the European places,” said Villa manager Emery, whose side are unbeaten in 10 games having won eight of those.
“We escaped the bottom, we got top 10 and now the European places is the last step but it is more difficult.
“There’s still five matches to play for us, but not for Liverpool, Brighton, Manchester United.
“We have to face the match on Sunday enjoying this opportunity we have in front of us.
“Of course, Europe could be Champions League, Europa League or Europa Conference League.
“Champions League is very, very difficult, maybe impossible.
“Europa League and Conference League could be, but as well it’s going to be very difficult.”
Aston Villa beat Manchester United 3-1 in the corresponding fixture back in November.
