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What do Leon Goretzka's latest comments mean for Aston Villa?
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- What do Leon Goretzka's latest comments mean for Aston Villa?
Aston Villa are yet to get their first glimpse of Leon Goretzka .
The Germany international was arguably the most surprising signing of the summer in B6.
He came in on a free transfer and certainly captured the attention due to his massive experience at the top level.
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After eight years at Bayern Munich , there's no doubting that the 31-year-old knows how to win.
That sort of mentality looks set to have a telling impact on this new-look Villa squad.
Unai Emery is yet to have Goretzka at his disposal, something which isn't set to change any time soon.
What has Leon Goretzka said?
There was a hope that the new number 27 would feature against Arsenal at Villa Park after signing.
With Joao Gomes missing through suspension, the German felt like the obvious alternative.
That didn't happen as he was omitted from the matchday squad entirely for the 1-0 defeat.
The trip to face Hull City followed suit as the midfielder was once again unavailable.
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Goretzka has now confirmed that this is due to an injury that has cropped up after coming in at Bodymoor Heath.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, he said: "Dear Villans, first of all, thank you for the incredible welcome. After my first few days at this club, the feeling that I'm exactly where I'm meant to be has grown stronger with each passing day.
"Unfortunately, my body has reacted to the increased workload after my time away from the pitch. It's frustrating, but I need this short break now to come back at full strength.
"I'll use the coming days, including the international break, to recover fully and I'll be back ready to fight and give everything for you and for Villa. Can't wait to see you on the pitch soon."
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That will serve as a blow to the Villans and will likely cause a fair share of frustration behind the scenes.
All 32 players Aston Villa failed to sign in 'mad' summer transfer window, including Jack Grealish Why Aston Villa have every right to be frustrated with Goretzka latest
When you sign a new player, you want them to be available immediately.
That hasn't been the case for the midfielder after he went without a pre-season before immediately picking up a problem in B6.
Goretzka won't be available until after the international break having been ruled out with injury for the first time since April 2025.
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He has only missed 10 games since January 2023, but is set to miss at least four more in claret and blue, after already being absent for two.
Villa need him available after his five goals and three assists in the Bundesliga last season.
His ability in and around the box will be a boost, while he will also bring defensive stability with his 105 defensive actions and 78 duel wins throughout the most recent campaign.
That will only add to the frustration at Bodymoor as Villa will have every right to feel short changed at this point.
They didn't sign Goretzka to be a regular on the treatment table, they need him to be fit and firing as soon as possible.
