Leon Bailey has shared his thoughts on making his return to Aston Villa after a loan spell at Roma.
The winger was signed from Bayer Leverkusen in 2021, spending four seasons on their books. He produced his most prolific campaign for the club under Unai Emery as he recorded 14 goals and 14 assists on the way to the top four in the Premier League and the Conference League semi-final.
The 2024/25 campaign was a complicated one for Bailey, and Emery eventually started using John McGinn or Morgan Rogers as a right midfielder to make up for his lack of output. He then joined the **Serie A**side in August, but Aston Villa have recalled him to their group in the winter window.
It is another offensive option for a team that have lost Ollie Watkins to a hamstring injury in midweek against RedBull Salzburg**** and Donyell Malen in a deal with Roma. The 28-year-old featured against Newcastle United off the bench, and he is happy to be back with the Villans.
“I can’t describe the feeling, it’s amazing to be back. I’ve missed this place a lot, I genuinely did. The fans have been so welcoming, players, staff, everybody. I’m really grateful and happy to be back.
“It felt like I was back at home. Right back into the system I’m so used to, the style of play. Back with the lads I’m so comfortable with as well, it felt good to be back out there on the pitch with them.
“After such a long time to share a pitch again, it felt great. And what a great win.
“I’m very determined. Last season wasn’t the best and they [the fans] deserve to see back that Leon Bailey who was on fire for them in the 2023/24 season. I’m motivated, confident, I feel good – so, it’s only up from here.”