Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott ready for ‘second chance’ at Anfield

By Megan Sinclair — 30 July 2026 — 4 min read

Elliott’s Return to Liverpool

Harvey Elliott has expressed his readiness for a “second chance” at Liverpool, aiming to rediscover his enjoyment for football after what he described as a “tough” loan period at Aston Villa. Elliott joined Villa last summer on a season-long loan agreement. The deal included a clause that would have obligated Unai Emery’s side to sign him for £35m if he made 10 appearances.

However, Villa opted not to trigger this option early in the season, resulting in Elliott playing only nine games and a total of 277 minutes. Emery characterised the situation as “embarrassing for everyone involved.” Following this, Elliott returned to Merseyside earlier than initially planned this summer and has since participated in both of Liverpool’s pre-season matches under new manager Andoni Iraola.

Reflecting on his time at Villa, Elliott stated that he had sought a new challenge, aiming to step out of his comfort zone and develop as a player. Despite his intentions, he acknowledged that the move “didn’t work out.” He views his current situation at Liverpool as an opportunity, particularly with the arrival of Iraola and the new coaching staff, to make a positive impression.

Elliott conveyed his best wishes to Villa, noting that he held affection for the club and felt well-treated, despite the circumstances. He described the experience as another learning curve and is now focused on securing his position within the Liverpool squad.

Mentally Challenging Loan Spell

Elliott, who made his Premier League debut at 16 after developing in Fulham’s academy before joining Liverpool in 2019, found the loan spell mentally demanding. He had previously played regularly under former manager Jurgen Klopp but saw less game time in the title-winning season under Arne Slot, making 18 Premier League appearances in 2024-25 before his move to Villa.

He described the experience as an opportunity to encounter something new, an experience he would not wish upon other players due to its difficulty. Despite the challenges, Elliott holds no resentment and is now past that period. He highlighted that he was able to navigate the situation and contribute to a significant achievement at the end of the season, being part of Villa’s Europa League victory.

Elliott acknowledged that training throughout the week without playing was particularly challenging mentally. He expressed gratitude that he is now on the other side of that experience. He also mentioned that the Villa manager had explained the situation to him, and the club had expressed apologies. Elliott emphasised his professional approach, stating he is not one to cause issues and understood that certain aspects were beyond his control.

The midfielder, who was named Player of the Tournament when England U21s won Euro 2025 last summer, remains uncertain about his long-term future but plans to discuss it with Iraola later in the season. His immediate focus is on ensuring he is in optimal physical and mental condition and performing well on the pitch.

Elliott believes that his future at the club ultimately depends on his effort and desire. He expressed happiness at being back at Liverpool, noting his beaming smile since returning to training. He spoke of his desire to play freely and enjoy his football, feeling that he sometimes does not do so enough, and considers playing for Liverpool an unparalleled feeling.

Injury Update for Joe Gomez

In other team news, Joe Gomez is set to miss the beginning of the Premier League season due to a muscle injury. Iraola confirmed that the Liverpool centre-back sustained the injury during a 4-2 victory over Sunderland on Sunday.

Speaking in Chicago the morning after Liverpool’s win against Wrexham in New York, Iraola indicated that Gomez would be out for several weeks. He estimated a recovery period of approximately one month, noting that it could be slightly less if recovery progresses well, or more if complications arise. Iraola clarified that it is a muscle injury, not a severe one, but it will prevent Gomez from participating at the start of the season.

Gomez is currently with the squad in Chicago. With Giovanni Leoni also sidelined and Virgil van Dijk not on the pre-season tour, Iraola has had to rely on younger centre-backs. Jeremy Jacquet is expected to make his debut when Liverpool faces Leeds in Chicago on Sunday.

Iraola highlighted the team’s limited options at centre-back, mentioning Mor Talla Ndiaye and Ifeanyi Ndukwe, both 18 years old and new to the club, who have performed well. He also noted that Luke Chambers, not a natural centre-back, played effectively in that position. Iraola expressed satisfaction with the composure and solidity shown by the team’s young centre-backs in matches against Sunderland and Wrexham.

Source: bbc.co.uk