‘Enzo Barrenechea Aston Villa return ruled out’ as seal of approval given for exit
Enzo Barrenechea could be set for an Aston Villa exit after his loan deal expires.
There was excitement surrounding the Argentina international throughout pre-season nearly 12 months ago after his move from Juventus.
The 24-year-old looked effective in the middle of the park in a number of friendlies before eventually making a temporary switch to Valencia.
It is fair to say that the midfielder has been effective away from Villa Park, but may not be handed the opportunity to make a playing return.
Barrenchea could soon confirm Aston Villa exit
It did come as a surprise when the former Frosinone loanee was sent away from B6 before being given a chance in B6.
There is no doubt that there are already positive options available in the Midlands with Youri Tielemans, Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana, but the Argentine could have represented excellent depth.
The clamour for him to feature in claret and blue has been felt throughout the season after a positive stint under Carlos Corberan in LaLiga.
| Stat (LaLiga 24/25) | Enzo Barrenechea |
| Appearances | 30 |
| Accurate passes | 1169 |
| Tackles won | 30 |
| Duels won | 150 |
This may be the case, but that may not stop Unai Emery from once again snubbing him from the squad for the upcoming season.
Certain sections of fans may be surprised by this, although it would make complete sense if Nicolas Raskin were to sign from Rangers.
Despite not being carbon copies of each other, they both want to get on the ball and make things happen, which could spell bad news for Barrenechea.
This will have only gotten worse after former Gers boss Philippe Clement spoke out about the Belgian midfielder in his homeland, as per The Scottish Sun (5 June).
He said: “I think he’s ready. I’m convinced Nico would fit perfectly in the Premier League.
“I’m not saying he would be in a top-six team now. But just below that, so he can calmly adapt to the level. Make no mistake: Nico has a lot of room to grow.
“He has to make the right choice now, and if he leaves and gets enough playing time at his new club, he will only get better. I would put my hand in the fire for that.”
Raskin could replace Barrenechea at Aston Villa
After two and a half positive seasons at Ibrox, there is no doubt that the 24-year-old could prove to be a smart pickup from Monchi and Co.
As positive as this could prove to be for the Villans, it could spell bad news for the returning Barrenechea, who may be forced out as a result.
This may not go down well with a host of supporters, but could prove to be wise given the Belgian’s experience in the Europa League down the years.
A sale of the Valencia loanee could then be utilised as Villa owners NSWE continue to deal with PSR complaints moving into the summer window.