Unai Emery has labeled Harvey Elliott’s lack of playing time at Aston Villa this season as «embarrassing for everyone».
Elliott has played just four games in the Premier League since joining Villa on loan from Liverpool last year.
His only league start this season came against Fulham in September, but he was taken off at half-time and has not played in the top flight since February.
Villa had an obligation to buy Elliott for 35 million pounds ($47 million) if the 23-year-old made 10 league appearances.
His only league start this season came against Fulham in September, but he was taken off at half-time and has not played in the top flight since February. | Photo credit: Getty Images
His only league start this season came against Fulham in September, but he was taken off at half-time and has not played in the top flight since February. | Photo credit: Getty Images
But Elliott, who played for England Under-21s when they won the European Championship in 2025, is certain to return to Anfield at the end of the current season.
Speaking ahead of Friday’s match with Elliott’s parent club Liverpool, Emery said: «It’s something of an embarrassment for everyone involved. My apologies to Harvey Elliott are in my thoughts every day.
«But it is the responsibility. We have our responsibility and Liverpool have their responsibility.»
“As a person and as a person, the season has been difficult.”
Liverpool boss Arne Slot confirmed Elliott will be given the chance to impress in pre-season with the Reds before a decision is made on his future.
«It didn’t work out the way he wanted, the way we wanted it and probably not the way Villa wanted it either, because normally you sign a player or hire him to use him,» said Slot.
“He has a contract with us, so he will be with us at the start of the season.”
Published on May 14, 2026
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