Lucas Digne has completed his £8.5 million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain and immediately issued a heartfelt farewell message to Aston Villa supporters, thanking them for four memorable years at Villa Park.
The 33-year-old left-back joined Villa in January 2022 and went on to make 182 appearances, scoring four goals and playing a key role in the club's Europa League triumph in Istanbul on May 20. His consistent performances made him a firm favourite among the Villa faithful, but the Parisians triggered a release clause in his contract to bring him back to the French capital.
An emotional goodbye to the Villa faithful
With the switch confirmed on Sunday, Digne took to Instagram to share a professionally produced farewell video, featuring a montage of his finest moments in a Villa shirt, including his famous "another one" celebration after victories.
In the video, he said: "What a journey. Dear Villans, thank you. We've shared so many unforgettable moments together. The highs, the lows, but through it all, we stayed together until the very end."
He continued: "After every victory, we had our little ritual. A moment I'll always cherish. From day one you made me and my family feel at home. Over these four years, I grew as a player. As a man. And somehow I became one of you. Winning the Europa League together is a memory I'll carry with me forever. I'm so grateful to have shared this journey with you."
Delight at returning to Paris
Shortly after the farewell post, Digne confirmed his move to PSG with another social media clip. Despite his clear affection for Villa, he could not hide his excitement at returning to the Parc des Princes, where he previously played between 2013 and 2016.
Speaking to PSG's official website, he said: "The Parc [des Princes] is a magical place! Once you've played there, you want to go back. When I was able to return here with Aston Villa in the Champions League, it was a magical moment. It's a stadium that gives you goosebumps."
He added: "I'd like to say a huge thank you to the fans for the support I received before I signed, and I can't wait to join them at the Parc des Princes to celebrate lots of wins this year."
Impact on Aston Villa
Digne's departure leaves a significant gap in Villa's defensive line. The club has already been linked with several left-back options as they prepare for their Champions League campaign next season. Villa fans will remember Digne not only for his defensive solidity but also for his attacking contributions and his passionate celebrations.
The Frenchman's exit also represents a profitable piece of business for Villa, who signed him for £25 million from Everton in 2022. The £8.5 million fee, however, reflects his age and the release clause in his contract.
Digne's move to PSG reunites him with a club where he won multiple Ligue 1 titles and a Coupe de France. He will compete with Nuno Mendes for the left-back spot under manager Luis Enrique, as PSG look to defend their league title and push for Champions League glory.
