Aston Villa kicked off their pre-season campaign for the 2026/27 season with a resounding 5-0 victory over Walsall at the Bescot Stadium. Brian Madjo bagged a first-half brace, scoring either side of George Hemmings' goal, before Luka Lynch and Aidan Borland added a fourth and fifth for Villa. Unai Emery's side now travel to FC Porto this weekend before returning to Walsall on Tuesday to host Real Sociedad.
Madjo Steals the Show
There were a number of impressive performances from Villa's youngsters, but it is hard to look past Madjo's contribution after he found the back of the net twice during the 45 minutes he played. His first goal showcased his brute strength, holding off a defender before finishing clinically from Kosta Nedeljkovic's cross to open the scoring. After adding his second just before the break, Madjo would no doubt have been eager to stay on, given the lack of opportunities he has had since joining Villa.
FIFA have so far prevented Madjo from being registered as a Villa player because he is yet to turn 18, but the club has taken the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to challenge the decision. Madjo is a specimen for a 17-year-old and appears to have all the attributes needed to succeed in the Premier League.
Joao Gomes Earns His First Minutes
Fans were also delighted to see Joao Gomes play in claret and blue for the first time since his £35 million move from Wolves. The Brazilian strolled onto the Bescot pitch wearing his match shorts and sliders shortly after the team bus arrived. In conversation with compatriot Alysson before kick-off, the pair later impressed in the second half, with Gomes slotting in on the left side of the double pivot.
Partnered with Borland, who scored an excellent goal in the 69th minute, Gomes was composed and secure in possession while also showing the energy to cover plenty of ground. After a relatively low-key first outing, there is likely much more to come from Gomes in the weeks ahead as Villa gear up for the new season.
Alysson's Summer Opportunity
Villa are set to sign Alejandro Garnacho on loan from Chelsea following the departure of Morgan Rogers, who moved in the opposite direction for £117 million. Emery is still in need of another forward, though, with the likes of Ibrahim Mbaye and Nicolas Jackson both admired. For Alysson, who joined Villa in January, there could still be room for him in the squad next season if he does enough during pre-season to convince Emery.
Villa are expected to have Garnacho, Emi Buendía, Johan Manzambi and John McGinn as options to play behind Ollie Watkins. While another signing is expected to bolster those attacking options, perhaps Alysson could remain at the club and contribute too. Manzambi and McGinn can also be deployed in the double pivot if Emery finds himself short of midfield options through injury, fatigue or suspension.
Alysson, who looked sharp against Walsall, has a point to prove to Emery this summer, although a loan move may ultimately be considered the best course of action for the 20-year-old.
