Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has opened up about the limited playing time afforded to Liverpool loanee Harvey Elliott, explaining that the situation involves multiple factors beyond just the impressive resurgence of teammate Emi Buendia.
The Battle for the Number Ten Role
Since his arrival at Villa Park on deadline day, Harvey Elliott has made a mere five appearances for the club. A significant clause in his loan agreement states that if the 22-year-old features in five more matches, Aston Villa will be obligated to pay Liverpool a permanent transfer fee of £35 million.
Elliott was ineligible to play against his parent club Liverpool at Anfield earlier this month, but his absence was more notable when he was left out of the matchday squads entirely for the fixtures against Manchester City and Bournemouth. Emery has previously identified Elliott's best position as a No. 10, a role where the squad currently boasts several options.
Emi Buendia's Remarkable Resurgence
The primary competitor for that attacking midfield spot is Emi Buendia. The Argentine playmaker, who was widely expected to leave the club last summer, has instead staged a spectacular comeback. Buendia has been in fine form, contributing to six goals so far this season with strikes against Fulham, Feyenoord, Tottenham, and Bournemouth.
Emery provided context for Buendia's dramatic improvement, highlighting the player's difficult journey. "He had an injury for 10 months, and after he was training with us. He needed time to get in everything - good, mentally, physically confident," the manager stated.
He elaborated on Buendia's struggles, including a challenging loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen where he failed to regain his confidence or secure consistent minutes. "This year is completely different," Emery emphasised. "He started so focused... showing in each match he played in pre-season. He worked hard to recover his best form."
Emery's Verdict on Elliott's Situation
When asked if Buendia's performances were the sole reason for Elliott's lack of minutes, Emery pointed to a broader picture. "It is everything," he explained, "because the adaptation is something that some players need more than others."
He praised Elliott's professionalism and attitude, saying, "Harvey Elliott, he is working very well. He is working consistently. He is a good guy and his commitment to Aston Villa is fantastic. I am happy how he is doing his work here."
However, the manager was clear that current team performance takes precedence. "But now it is difficult because he has other players playing and performing well, for example Emi Buendia and other players." This admission confirms that Elliott faces a tough challenge to break into a Villa side that is currently firing on all cylinders.
