Leon Bailey lifestyle concerns emerge as Roma consider loan exit

Questions are growing around Leon Bailey’s future after his loan spell at AS Roma stalled amid fitness issues and concerns over his lifestyle off the pitch.

The Aston Villa winger has not featured in Roma’s last three matches, with his most recent appearance ending abruptly against Juventus. Introduced at half-time, Bailey was later withdrawn by head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, a decision that underlined growing doubts surrounding his condition.

Bailey’s struggles have coincided with renewed injury problems, but Italian media are now pointing to deeper issues. Gazzetta dello Sport report that the winger’s enjoyment of Rome’s nightlife has not gone unnoticed, particularly as it has aligned with his recurring fitness setbacks.

The newspaper described Bailey’s Roma stint as resembling a “flash in the pan” holiday rather than a sustained footballing project — a pointed critique that has not gone down well with supporters.

That growing frustration has prompted Roma to reassess the situation.

According to reports in Italy, Roma have already held initial discussions with Aston Villa about the possibility of sending Bailey back before the end of the season.

While Benfica were previously mentioned as a potential destination, the focus has now shifted elsewhere. Villa, aware of the complications, have begun exploring alternative options should the player return prematurely.

One club showing concrete interest is Beşiktaş, with Turkey emerging as a realistic next step for the 28-year-old if Roma decide to cut the loan short.

Villa are understood to be reluctant to reintegrate Bailey unless a new move can be secured. If no suitable destination is found, Roma may yet retain the winger until the end of the campaign, despite the mounting concerns.

Bailey arrived in Rome to optimism and bold promises, encouraging supporters to expect big things from his loan spell. However, it now feels a long time since that initial enthusiasm, with form, fitness and focus all under scrutiny.

The coming weeks are likely to determine Bailey’s immediate future. If Roma push to end the loan early, Aston Villa will accelerate talks with interested clubs to avoid a return to Birmingham without a clear plan in place.

Has Leon Bailey’s loan spell in Rome already run its course — or can he still turn things around?