Aston Villa Star’s Loan Ends, Returns Immediately
Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey is returning to Villa Park following the conclusion of his loan spell at AS Roma. This move comes after a season that proved challenging for the Jamaican international in Italy.
Aston Villa Star’s Loan Ends, Returns Immediately
Bailey joined Roma on a loan deal that began last summer. He expressed enthusiasm for the move, but his time in Serie A was marked by limited playing opportunities. By late December, reports indicated that Roma management was contemplating an early end to his loan.
Limited Playing Time in Italy
During his stint at Roma, Bailey struggled to find a consistent role in the squad. He made only seven appearances in Serie A, accumulating a total of 181 minutes on the pitch. His record in front of goal was unremarkable, with no goals or assists to his name. He also featured minimally in the Europa League.
Future Plans for Bailey
Despite not thriving in Italy, Bailey garnered some support from Roma’s sporting director, Frederic Massara. However, this admiration did not prevent the loan from concluding. Italian journalist Filippo Biafora confirmed that Bailey’s loan is officially over, and he will return to Aston Villa immediately.
- Loan Duration: Summer 2023 – January 2024
- Total Appearances: 7 in Serie A
- Total Minutes Played: 181
- Goals and Assists: 0
Aston Villa is now faced with the decision of whether to reintegrate Bailey into Unai Emery’s squad or seek a new club for him in the current transfer window. The team is also actively pursuing a new striker, Tammy Abraham, hoping to finalize a deal with Turkish club Besiktas.
Bailey’s Contract Status
Bailey’s contract with Aston Villa extends until the summer of 2027. With only a year left on his deal after next summer, the winger is eager to secure regular playing time. This is crucial for his development and performance as he looks to contribute meaningfully in the second half of the season, whether with Villa or elsewhere.
