(Credit: Hasan Karim - Breaking Media/Imago)

Aasif Rahman

Fri 22 August 2025 15:30, UK

Aston Villa players were among those to react after Leon Bailey shared an emotional farewell message to supporters.

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It has been a relatively quiet summer at Villa Park, with financial constraints limiting Unai Emery’s ability to bring in big-name signings.

Evann Guessand, Yasin Ozcan and Marco Bizot have all arrived at Aston Villa, with the club spending at just £32million so far.

At the same time, the club have been under pressure to balance the books, with Football Insider revealing Aston Villa may be forced to cash in on key players in order to comply with UEFA’s financial regulations.

That has already seen the likes of Jacob Ramsey and Leander Dendoncker depart, and Bailey has now become the latest high-profile exit, sealing a move to Serie A side Roma.

The winger expressed his gratitude to the supporters in a message on social media that drew a reaction from several of his now-former teammates.

Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images

Bailey has completed a season-long loan move to Roma with an option to buy, and the winger took the time to send a heartfelt message to fans following his exit.

The Jamaican international posted a video compilation of his best moments in claret and blue, accompanied by the caption: “Thank you Villans for all the love & support over the years, I will always keep you guys close to my heart.”

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His post was quickly met with a wave of support with Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne responded with heart emojis, while Ollie Watkins and former loanee Marco Asensio showed their appreciation by liking the post.

Football Insider revealed Villa had initially hoped to sell Bailey on a permanent deal this summer, but instead agreed to a more flexible loan move with Roma that includes a purchase option.

The winger endured a disappointing final season at Villa Park, scoring just twice across all competitions, and will now look to reignite his career in Serie A.

Roma.

Credit: Imago

While Bailey has departed, another wide player could also be on his way out of the club with nine days of the window to go.

Reports suggest that Samuel Iling-Junior is attracting interest from several Championship clubs, with Villa open to letting him leave on loan.

The 21-year-old is yet to make a competitive first-team appearance for Villa, having previously spent time out on loan at Bologna and Middlesbrough.