Craig Butler has firmly denied claims that Roma had let go of Leon Bailey during the January transfer window. Instead, agents say Aston Villa have actually asked for the winger to return. They need him back to help bolster the team’s depth. Butler clarified the circumstances of the Jamaica international’s early departure in an interview with CVM TV.
Gialrorossi.net later shared the details. The 28-year-old joined the Italian side on loan last summer, but things quickly went downhill in Italy. Bailey missed two months due to an early training injury. As a result, he played only 317 minutes in 11 games and provided only 1 assist. While some Italian media claim Gian Piero Gasperini does not want the player, Buttler says Unai Emery has called for him to be brought back to strengthen Villa’s squad.
advertise
“He didn’t return to Aston Villa because Roma didn’t need him, but because English clubs needed him,” he said.
Necessary reinforcement?
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – JULY 17: Aston Villa’s Leo Bailey dribbles the ball in front of Leeds United’s Leif Davies during the 2022 Queensland Champions Cup match between Aston Villa and Leeds United at Suncorp Stadium on July 17, 2022 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images)
Pele’s time in Italy is quickly coming to an end, raising real questions about Villa’s current tactics. Unai Emery’s choice to bring the winger back points to his lack of attacking options. Injuries or a dip in form among other forwards may have triggered the move.
advertise
Pele hasn’t done much in Serie A, but Villa know what he can do in the Premier League. The Jamaica international is quick and likes to run at defenders. These are qualities that the Midland club clearly missed in the first half of the season.
Butler’s comments also suggest he’s trying to protect his players’ reputations. He thinks it’s Villa desperate for him to come back, rather than Roma wanting him to leave. This strategy keeps Bailey’s market value high. Despite this, there is still a lot of pressure on the player to justify the club’s faith in him.
Bailey, 28, is at a turning point in his career. He needs to trade potential for consistent results. He was back in familiar surroundings at Villa Park, but he had to find his rhythm again immediately. If he underperforms, critics will start to question whether he is truly fit for the Premier League. Aston Villa now need Bailey’s special skills. The big question is whether Bailey’s body can handle the difficult English season after such a chaotic year.
