@FootynewsAlejandro Garnacho’s first Aston Villa appearance ended in a 3-1 win over Indonesia All Stars, and his post-match Instagram felt pointed. “First start after three months, happy to enjoy football again.” A lot of people saw that as a dig at his Chelsea chapter. He’d left Manchester United after slipping down the pecking order, Chelsea spent 40 million to sign him, and he managed 8 goals in 43 games without ever really settling. Xabi Alonso made it clear he was available, so a loan to Aston Villa materialized with a conditional 43 million obligation to buy. He’s 22 and already been at three clubs inside a year, the ability’s there, but the openings are drying up.

@FootynewsAlejandro Garnacho’s first Aston Villa appearance ended in a 3-1 win over Indonesia All Stars, and his post-match Instagram felt pointed. “First start after three months, happy to enjoy football again.” A lot of people saw that as a dig at his Chelsea chapter. He’d left Manchester United after slipping down the pecking order, Chelsea spent 40 million to sign him, and he managed 8 goals in 43 games without ever really settling. Xabi Alonso made it clear he was available, so a loan to Aston Villa materialized with a conditional 43 million obligation to buy. He’s 22 and already been at three clubs inside a year, the ability’s there, but the openings are drying up.