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Alejandro Garnacho appears to aim dig at Chelsea after Aston Villa debut
Sameer Bhatia | August 3, 2026 2:24 AM CST

Alejandro Garnacho said he is "happy to be enjoying football again" after making his debut for Aston Villa.

The Argentina winger was named in the starting line-up for Saturday’s 3-1 pre-season victory over the Indonesia All Stars, as Unai Emery’s team continued their build-up to the new campaign.

Garnacho is seeking yet another fresh beginning less than a year after moving to Chelsea from Manchester United.

The 22-year-old wide player has joined Villa on loan in an arrangement that is expected to be made permanent.

Although Garnacho did not get on the scoresheet at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, he contributed during the first half as Villa moved into a 2-0 advantage before being taken off at the interval.

Following the game, Garnacho posted a picture from the match on Instagram with a message that many saw as a subtle jibe at his parent club.

"See you soon Bangkok! First start after three months. Happy to be enjoying football again. One per cent every day. Thanks Indonesia," he wrote.

The Argentina international was brought in after Villa sold Morgan Rogers to Chelsea, with Emery having identified Garnacho as an important addition to his attacking options.

Speaking when the transfer was announced, Emery said: "We are delighted with Alejandro. He is so talented, young, and he showed us his wish to help our project. We are really happy."


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