Moussa Diaby’s debut season at Aston Villa seemed promising at first. With two goals and an assist in his first three games, there was fanfare surrounding his arrival. He went on to score 10 goals and provide nine assists in all competitions, making 54 appearances, more than any other player on the team. However, despite the solid numbers, it turns out that Diaby was not actually Unai Emery’s top target. That honor belonged to Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, a 22-year-old forward who made a name for himself at Euro 2024.
Williams and Diaby had a similar profile, but it became clear that Diaby was not Emery’s first choice. As the season progressed, his role in the team diminished, going from an integral creative hub to a peripheral starter. In December, he was even left out of crucial matches against Manchester City and Arsenal. Emery tried to help Diaby regain his form and confidence, but it seemed like the team was moving in a different tactical direction, prioritizing control over Diaby’s directness.
Considering the diminishing value of Diaby’s performances and the fact that he was never the primary target for Emery, it’s not surprising that both parties are open to offers from other clubs. It seems that there is a mutual understanding that a fresh start might be beneficial for both Diaby and Aston Villa.
So why exactly are Aston Villa willing to sell a player who showed promise early on? One possible reason could be that the team is looking to make strategic changes and Diaby’s playing style doesn’t align with their new direction. They may be seeking a player who offers more control and consistency rather than Diaby’s unpredictable bursts of creativity. Additionally, selling Diaby could provide funds for Villa to invest in other areas of the squad that need strengthening.
It’s important to note that this analysis is based on the available information and does not include any recent studies or expert quotes. However, by examining the situation from different angles and considering various factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of why Aston Villa might be open to selling Moussa Diaby despite his initial impressive performances. Ultimately, only time will tell what the future holds for Diaby and his potential move to another club.