Arjun Menon
Harvey Elliott lifted the Europa League trophy with Aston Villa and wasted no time laughing at his own situation. The 23-year-old was an unused substitute as Villa dismantled Freiburg in the final, yet still collected a winner’s medal — his fifth consecutive season picking up silverware dating back to 2021/22.
Get 200% Bonus up to $500 – World Cup 2026 on TipsGG × Stake
The World Cup 2026 is almost here. Follow every match with expert betting tips, live odds, and tournament news – all in one place. Bet smarter with Stake’s 200% Welcome Bonus up to $500.
On Instagram, Elliott posted alongside laughing and heart emojis: “Was written in the stars from the moment I signed! Up the Villa. Played a huge part. All jokes aside Villa fans thanks so much for everything! Enjoy yourselves.” The self-deprecating tone is understandable given a loan spell that delivered just 11 appearances across the entire season — two of which came for Liverpool, as a late substitute against Newcastle in the Premier League and in the Community Shield.
The permanent transfer never materialised. Aston Villa decided early in the campaign that they would not trigger the purchase clause, a move that would have been worth $47 million (£35 million) and delivered Liverpool a significant windfall. That money remains unrealised for now.
Arne Slot addressed Elliott‘s situation ahead of Liverpool‘s match against Aston Villa last week.
“I think for him, and for everyone, it didn’t work out as we wanted it. Usually you sign a player on loan to use him, but hasn’t happened a lot. It’s not for me to answer why that it is, but it is never nice for not many minutes. I assume he played more with us last season, and he went there for more time. He’s such a talented player, he did so well at the U21 Euros. You want a player like that to play more. But he went to a good team with a lot of good players. It’s not for me to answer why, but it’s always a pity when a player like that doesn’t play a lot. He is contracted to us, so he will be with us at the start of next season.”
Elliott remains under contract at Anfield for another 12 months, so he returns to Liverpool this summer rather than moving on permanently. His next decision carries real weight. RB Leipzig showed interest last year, though the Bundesliga club is currently pursuing Brajan Gruda from Brighton, which may reduce their appetite for another wide player.
A fresh start abroad could be the most productive path forward for a player of his quality. Follow TipsGG for the latest on Elliott‘s future and all Liverpool transfer developments this summer.
Read also: Aston Villa Clinch 2025–26 Europa League Title With Commanding 3–0 Win Over Freiburg