Garnacho slammed for attitude as £43m buy-option at Villa already under threat

Alejandro Garnacho’s season-long loan at Aston Villa from Chelsea is under early strain, with the Argentine winger having played just 31 Premier League minutes and remaining an unused substitute in both Champions League and Carabao Cup fixtures.

Garnacho only moved to Stamford Bridge from Manchester United in the summer of 2025, yet Chelsea swiftly sent him to Villa Park on a temporary deal that includes a £43 million buy-option — one that requires him to reach a specific number of appearances to become active. With Unai Emery yet to hand him a Premier League start despite Villa’s injury problems, that threshold is already in jeopardy.

Compounding the situation, there is reported to be no break clause in the loan agreement, meaning Chelsea cannot recall him in January even if they wanted to — a moot point, given his underwhelming spell at the club last season.

The lack of minutes has reignited criticism of Garnacho’s attitude, most pointedly from former Villa striker Dean Saunders. “If I’m being honest, I’m not a fan of Alejandro Garnacho and his attitude,” Saunders said. “Look at what happened with him and Manchester United. When you look at his talent and ability — talent alone didn’t impress me. I wasn’t impressed by people who can do tricks, juggle a ball and beat three men.”

Saunders drew a contrast with players he valued for their consistency and defensive work rate. “Some players have nowhere near the talent of Garnacho, but I’d be more impressed with someone who turns up every week, gives a seven-out-of-ten performance, works hard defensively, and provides quality in the final third. That consistent work rate is what you’re getting paid for. To be honest, I was surprised Villa signed him.”

There are, however, early signs that Garnacho is working to change the narrative. He scored in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Southampton last week, and Villa’s fixture list — which includes Premier League matches against Brentford and Newcastle — offers him further opportunities to force his way into Emery’s plans before the loan’s permanency clause comes under serious threat.