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Harvey Elliott’s career has reached a crossroads as Aston Villa contemplates sending the midfielder back to Liverpool.
The 22-year-old joined Aston Villa on a season-long loan during the summer transfer window, with a conditional obligation for the club to make the move permanent in 2026.
This clause requires Elliott to make 10 appearances for Villa, but he has featured just five times, with his most recent appearance coming on October 2.
FIFA regulations prevent a player from representing more than two European clubs in a single season, and Elliott’s brief outing for Liverpool against Newcastle earlier in the campaign eliminates the possibility of terminating the loan and moving him to another European team.
One option for the England U21 international is a move to Major League Soccer. Clubs such as Charlotte FC have already shown interest, offering Elliott the chance to play regular football in a competitive league and avoid spending the remainder of the season on the sidelines.
While FIFA rules close the door on a European transfer this season, Elliott could still explore opportunities outside Europe. The Saudi Pro League has emerged as a particularly attractive option, combining strong competition with financial incentives.
Such a move could offer a short-term solution, allowing him to play consistently while maintaining his profile internationally.
Elliott could also choose to remain at Villa and attempt to reclaim a regular spot in Emery’s squad. While this would require patience and hard work, consistent performances could help him salvage the season and potentially keep him in contention for national team selection.
However, given Villa’s current plans and his limited game time so far, this path may prove challenging.
A return to Anfield is another theoretical option, though one complicated by the absence of a recall clause. If Elliott remains at Liverpool for the rest of the season, he would need to fight for playing time under Arne Slot, competing in a squad already featuring several attacking talents.
While this could offer a route back to Premier League football at the highest level, minutes may still be hard to come by.
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Elliott’s decisions this January could have long-term consequences for his international career. Regular football is crucial if he wants to remain on Thomas Tuchel’s radar, yet options are limited.
A move abroad could offer short-term relief, while staying in England would require resilience and a renewed fight for a place in the starting lineup.
Liverpool.com says: For Elliott, the coming weeks are pivotal. Whether he chooses to embrace a new adventure in MLS or the Saudi Pro League, or battles for game time in England, the 22-year-old faces one of the most important decisions of his career to date.
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