Aston Villa began the new season with confidence and aimed to build on their strong finish last year. The club’s transfer activity showed that belief, as several young players arrived to strengthen the squad. Among them stood Harvey Elliott, who completed a much-talked-about move from Liverpool.
His arrival excited supporters, who expected his flair to add more creativity to the West Midlands side. However, weeks into the campaign, Elliott’s name has disappeared from the regular team sheet, and many now wonder what has gone wrong.
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 21: Harvey Elliott of Aston Villa looks on during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Aston Villa at Stadium of Light on September 21, 2025 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
The 22-year-old struggles to secure consistent minutes and adjust to Unai Emery’s demanding system. His limited playing time clashes with the expectations that followed his signing, creating early doubts about his long-term role at the club.
Graeme Bailey reported on TBR Football that Liverpool have not ruled out Elliott’s return in the future. The Merseyside club added a buy-back clause when they approved his move, showing they still value him highly. Although Aston Villa must complete the transfer permanently at the end of the season, Liverpool’s clause lets them control the situation.
Sources close to the Reds believe Elliott still deserves attention, even though his progress has slowed since he left Anfield. They continue to track his development and may decide to bring him back if he regains form and confidence.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa keep reshaping their squad, as the club plans to pay €40 million for Joel Ordonez and prepares to extend Youri Tielemans’ contract, which raises competition for midfield and attacking spots.
Elliott faces a difficult situation but still has hope. He owns the skill and versatility to succeed if he adapts quickly to Villa’s system. His ability to play across attacking roles gives Emery more options once he finds consistency. He needs regular playing time to rebuild his confidence and rhythm. If he performs well, he will justify both Villa’s investment and Liverpool’s faith in him.
Liverpool keep watching because they know his talent and saw his maturity at a young age. Elliott must now show the same hunger that once made him one of England’s brightest prospects. If he channels that drive, he can still turn his Aston Villa spell into the moment that reignites his career.
