Reason Alejandro Garnacho may be done as Aston Villa consider his future
Reason Alejandro Garnacho finds his spell at Aston Villa unraveling, with Unai Emery reportedly close to a decision that could see the Argentine winger leave Villa Park. The 31‑minute total he has logged this season has sparked speculation about his future, and the club’s patience is wearing thin.
Loan deal and disputed buy clause
Garnacho arrived on loan from Chelsea with a conditional purchase option reported at between 43 million and 50 million. The figure varies between sources, but the clause would trigger a permanent transfer should he meet a set appearance threshold.
Before joining Villa, the former Manchester United academy product fell out of favour at Old Trafford and struggled to meet expectations at Chelsea, prompting the loan move intended to revive his career.
Playing time and competition
Emery has preferred other wingers, leaving Garnacho on the bench for the last two matches and restricting him to just 31 minutes of competitive action. He has not started a game and was an unused substitute in the recent Carabao Cup win over Coventry City.
Emery explained after the Coventry victory, “Continue working. Work, work, train, work,” adding that Garnacho is “a little bit behind because of some circumstances we had in pre‑season” and that other players such as George Hemmings, Alysson, and Ibrahim Mbaye are currently ahead in the pecking order.
Spanish clubs are reportedly monitoring the situation, hoping to secure the winger in January or next summer. Their interest reflects Garnacho’s background – born in Madrid and developed at Atletico Madrid’s academy – but no concrete offers have emerged.
Villa’s alternatives on the left flank include George Hemmings, Emiliano Buendía and Ibrahim Ndiaye, all of whom have earned regular minutes under Emery’s system.
While some observers suggest Garnacho’s Villa chapter may be ending, Emery’s public stance remains that the player will continue to work and could earn his chance if he improves tactically.