Credit: Imago and UEFA

Max Wilkins

Tue 19 May 2026 17:10, UK

Aston Villa may regret their decision not to add Alysson to their Europa League squad as the final approaches.

The 20-year-old completed a surprise move from Gremio in the January window as the Villans failed to make any truly impactful signings.

There was a lack of available funds in B6, so investing in young talent like the Brazilian and Brian Madjo was the preferred transfer avenue.

While the striker is unavailable for the first team, the South American has made a handful of appearances in claret and blue.

Alysson can’t play for Villa in the Europa League final as Unai Emery and Co. may be left frustrated by a call from earlier this season.

Alysson spotted with Aston Villa squad travelling to Istanbul

The number 47 has struggled with injury since coming to the Midlands, largely due to having played a full season with Gremio before his move.

That has limited his availability in B6, despite bringing a wave of excitement to supporters in his few cameos.

Many had resigned themselves to not seeing the attacker again this season, but he has now been spotted with the travelling squad.

The Villans boarded a flight to Istanbul on Monday ahead of the Europa League final as the official Villa X account shared footage.

Eagle-eyed fans may have seen the Brazilian standing with his suitcase, washbag and laptop alongside Emi Buendia ahead of the flight.

Many suggested that Alysson could play some part for Villa, even just as a substitute, but that won’t be the case.

Aston Villa may regret Alysson’s Europa League snub

Villa decided not to include Ross Barkley or the January signing in their Europa League squad at both squad decision windows.

That could prove to be a regret if he is fit, given the pace and directness he could offer off the bench at Tupras Stadium.

In his first Premier League outing against Brighton, he was able to take a third of his touches inside the opposition box while also swinging in one cross.

His next B6 appearance came against Chelsea, and he took one shot while maintaining 100 per cent pass accuracy.

It would be a risk to chuck him in, but if Villa are to be losing in the Europa League final, having him as an option wouldn’t go amiss.

Keeping him in and around the squad even if he can’t play is still wise, as it gives him that experience, even if it will still be a blow for him to watch from the stands.