Credit: Imago

Edward Bazeley

Mon 28 April 2025 10:32, UK

Aston Villa’s FA Cup journey came to an end when they were beaten 3-0 by Crystal Palace in Saturday’s semi-final.

But former Villa hero Jack Grealish successfully navigated his way through to the final as Manchester City beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 at Wembley on Sunday.

The England international could be set for a Villa Park return this summer, having made just seven starts in the Premier League for Pep Guardiola’s men this term.

Grealish was previously the star man at Villa Park before making his move to the Etihad Stadium in the summer of 2021.

Grealish sends message after Man City win over Nottingham Forest

Grealish featured for 71 minutes on Sunday as City booked their spot in this season’s FA Cup final, thanks to their triumph over Forest.

After his side’s victory, the 29-year-old wrote on Instagram: “Another final with this unbelievable club!”

Morgan Rogers gave the former Villa man’s post a like.

Villa need Rogers to return to his best

Villa have enjoyed special moments this season, as they have reached the Champions League quarter-finals as well as the FA Cup semi-finals.

Even though Unai Emery’s men were ultimately knocked out of the Champions League by PSG on aggregate, the Villa Park faithful will never forget witnessing the men in claret and blue defeating the Ligue 1 Giants in the West Midlands.

Rogers has played a key role in his side’s largely strong campaign, notching 14 goals and 11 assists in 50 appearances across all competitions.

However, Emery’s side suffered a 2-1 Premier League defeat to Manchester City on 22 April, which could prove highly damaging to their Champions League credentials.

The Villa Park side were then hammered by Palace at Wembley in their FA Cup semi-final, while Rogers failed to make a positive impact on either game.

As Emery’s men strive to seal Champions League football for a second consecutive season, they will need the 22-year-old to return to his best.