Alejandro Garnacho aims Chelsea dig after Aston Villa transfer

Alejandro Garnacho has appeared to take a subtle swipe at former club Chelsea after completing his move to Aston Villa, insisting Champions League football was a major factor behind his decision.

The Argentina international has joined Unai Emery's side on an initial loan deal after struggling to establish himself at Stamford Bridge, where regular first-team football proved difficult to come by.

Speaking after his arrival at Villa Park, Garnacho admitted playing in Europe's elite competition was one of the biggest attractions of joining Aston Villa.

"I think it's also important to play European competitions," Garnacho said.

"I was looking for a club to get confidence and try to be the player that I was like years ago from my first years at Manchester United."

The winger also revealed Unai Emery played a crucial role in convincing him to make the switch.

"With Unai I spoke before I came here, he gave me that confidence, that confidence to be here."

Garnacho appeared to reference Chelsea's failure to qualify for the Champions League while explaining his decision.

"I had seen the Europa League victory last season and joining to play in the Champions League also is important to be part of this."

"Champions League is the best."

"We're going to play it this season, I'm really happy and hopefully we can do something important."

The comments are likely to be viewed as a subtle dig at Chelsea, who will miss out on Europe's premier club competition this season.

Garnacho joined Chelsea from Manchester United after his relationship with Ruben Amorim broke down at Old Trafford.

However, the move failed to revive his career.

The 22-year-old started just 14 Premier League matches last season and struggled to secure a regular place under either Enzo Maresca or Liam Rosenior.

Chelsea subsequently informed the winger he was not guaranteed regular minutes during the upcoming campaign, opening the door for a summer departure.

Chelsea are understood to value Garnacho at around £42.5 million should Aston Villa decide to make the move permanent.

The Argentine attracted interest from clubs across the Premier League, Italy and Saudi Arabia before choosing Villa Park.

Under Emery, Garnacho now hopes to rediscover the form that made him one of Manchester United's brightest young talents.

Alejandro Garnacho will begin the new season with Aston Villa as he looks to establish himself under Unai Emery and help the club compete in the Champions League. Chelsea will closely monitor his progress while Villa retain the option to pursue a permanent transfer.