Arne Slot has confirmed that Harvey Elliott will return to Liverpool at the start of next season after a difficult loan spell at Aston Villa. The 23-year-old joined Villa on a season-long loan last summer with an obligation to buy, but the clause was only triggered after ten appearances. Elliott made just nine, leaving him stranded on the bench under manager Unai Emery.
Elliott has managed only 284 minutes of first-team football this season, falling out of favour at Villa Park. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Liverpool's clash with Villa, Slot expressed disappointment that the move had not worked out. 'It's always a pity when a player like that doesn't play a lot,' said Slot. 'He is contracted to us, so he will be with us at the start of next season.'
The Liverpool boss acknowledged Elliott's talent, recalling his instrumental role in England's Under-21 European Championship victory last summer, where he was named Player of the Tournament. Slot also hinted that Elliott could have been useful this season given Liverpool's injury problems, but the youngster was ineligible to face his parent club.
Elliott made 149 appearances for Liverpool before the loan, winning several honours including last season's Premier League title. His future beyond the summer remains uncertain, with potential departures at Anfield creating opportunities. Meanwhile, Villa have reached the Europa League final, while Liverpool still need to secure Champions League qualification.
