Alejandro Garnacho is already facing uncertainty at Aston Villa, having made only three substitute appearances and played 31 minutes since joining on loan from Chelsea. His limited involvement suggests manager Unai Emery is not yet convinced he is ready to contribute regularly, making the season an important test after Garnacho struggled to meet expectations at Chelsea.

Emery says Garnacho is behind because of a pre-season facial injury and the need to learn Villa’s methods, while praising competitors George Hemmings, Alysson and Ibrahim Mbaye. Garnacho’s lack of opportunities is particularly notable because Villa wanted more pace after Morgan Rogers left, and his loan reportedly includes an appearance-related obligation to buy; another difficult season would represent a significant setback for the 22-year-old.