Aston Villa's recent 0-0 draw away at Crystal Palace has thrown a glaring issue into sharp relief: the club's persistent lack of a consistent, threatening presence on the right wing.
The Problem Position Exposed at Selhurst Park
The stalemate on Monday, 8th January 2026, showcased a familiar shortcoming for Unai Emery's team. Jadon Sancho, entrusted to create problems against Palace defender Tyrick Mitchell, failed to make a significant impact. The Manchester United loanee has offered only brief, bright cameos from the bench against Arsenal and Chelsea since his arrival, and is yet to score for Villa.
Too often against Palace, the winger lacked the confidence to take on his man, frequently turning back and playing safe. The same critique applies to summer signing Evann Guessand, currently away at the Africa Cup of Nations with Ivory Coast. While he has scored twice this term, the Nice recruit is still adapting to the Premier League and Emery's demands.
A Profile Missing Since Bailey's Peak
The situation underscores a void that has existed for two seasons, not since Leon Bailey produced the finest form of his career on that flank. Captain John McGinn, often deployed there, is a superb footballer but lacks the traditional profile of a winger who can beat his man and deliver consistently.
Emery, an elite manager, finds ways to win regardless, but the absence of a player with Bailey's directness and goal threat from the right is undeniable. New signing Alysson possesses some similar qualities, but his readiness for a permanent starting role next season is not guaranteed.
The Imperative for a Summer Solution
If Alysson is not the answer, the summer transfer window becomes paramount for addressing this structural need. The club requires a right winger who can elevate the team's level and provide the consistent output expected of a side chasing Champions League football.
Fans have already speculated about potential targets, with West Ham's Jarrod Bowen mentioned in conversations, though his age—he turns 30 this year—would be a consideration. Should Villa fail to act this month, Emery's options for the remainder of the campaign will be limited to McGinn, Guessand, and Sancho, none of whom represent the ideal solution for a top-four aspiring club.
The message from the draw at Selhurst Park is clear: for Villa to progress, the right wing issue must be fixed in the transfer market.
