Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey says he’s ready to put his injury struggles behind him and rediscover his best form on loan at AS Roma. The Jamaican international, who has endured a difficult spell of fitness setbacks, has now returned to action and made his first start for the Italian side in their 1–0 victory over Sassuolo.
Bailey had previously made substitute appearances against Inter Milan and Viktoria Plzeň, but his inclusion in the starting lineup against Sassuolo marked an important step in his recovery. Speaking after the match, the 28-year-old outlined his ambitions and admitted he’s still adapting to Gian Piero Gasperini’s demanding tactical system.
Bailey: “I’m adapting… I can’t be satisfied yet”
Bailey was honest in his post-match reflections, acknowledging that while he’s happy to be back, his performance levels are not yet where he wants them to be.
“I’m adapting. I’ve been out for a long time, and I also have to get to know the coach, his style of play, his ideas. My performance could have been better — I can’t be satisfied.” — Leon Bailey, via Corriere Dello Sport
Having missed a significant portion of the season through a muscle injury, Bailey said he’s focused on regaining sharpness and contributing to Roma’s push for a top-four finish.
Aiming for Champions League qualification
The winger, on loan from Aston Villa, made it clear that returning Roma to the Champions League is his primary motivation.
“The goal is to reach my highest level, and with many games left I can achieve that. I know the Champions League has been missing here for too long, so my priority is to bring Roma back to that stage.” — Leon Bailey
Bailey’s determination reflects the hunger of a player who has struggled to build consistency in recent seasons. After arriving from Aston Villa on loan last summer, his time in Italy was interrupted by recurring fitness issues that kept him sidelined for weeks.
“Now I want to turn things around”
Despite those setbacks, Bailey insists he feels stronger both physically and mentally, crediting Roma’s medical team for managing his recovery carefully.
“I had to respect my body, Gasp’s decisions and those of the medical staff. Now I want to turn things around.” — Leon Bailey
Roma have struggled for goals this season, and Bailey’s return is seen as a timely boost. His pace, creativity, and direct style offer something different to Gasperini’s attack, which has lacked width and penetration in recent games.
What this means for Aston Villa
From Aston Villa’s perspective, Bailey’s resurgence could prove significant. Roma hold an option to buy the winger permanently next summer, and a strong run of form could convince them to activate that clause.
Villa manager Unai Emery has previously said he hopes Bailey’s time in Italy will help him rediscover consistency and confidence. If he continues to progress, it could either open the door to a permanent move or a revitalised return to Villa Park next season.
Our View
In our view, Leon Bailey’s mindset is exactly what both Roma and Aston Villa will want to see. His injury-plagued career has been defined by flashes of brilliance followed by frustrating absences — but now, with fitness returning and a clear goal in sight, this loan spell could mark a genuine turning point.
Roma need a spark in attack, and Bailey has the raw tools to provide it. If he can stay healthy and adapt to Gasperini’s system, both clubs stand to benefit.
Key Insights
- Leon Bailey starts his first match for Roma after recovering from injury.
- The Aston Villa loanee admits he’s still adapting to Gasperini’s system.
- Bailey’s main goal is to help Roma return to the Champions League.
- Roma have the option to make the move permanent next summer.
- His fitness and form could determine his future at both clubs.
What’s Next
Bailey is expected to feature again this weekend when Roma face Milan in Serie A. A strong performance could further cement his place in the starting XI and continue his road to redemption after months of frustration.
👉 Can Leon Bailey finally rediscover his best form in Italy and earn a permanent Roma deal?
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