Aston Villa have enjoyed a huge few days, combining smart transfer planning with one of their most dramatic European nights of the season.
First, there’s movement in the market. Highly-rated striker Rory Wilson has agreed to join Sturm Graz on a straight loan, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano on their official x handle and reported by Softfootball.
EXCL: Sturm Graz agree deal to sign Rory Wilson as new striker from Aston Villa. Deal in place with #AVFC on straight loan for talented forward.
The 20-year-old recently signed a new contract at Villa Park and has been in great form for the youth teams, scoring five goals in this season’s UEFA Youth League. Although a loan-to-buy move to Hoffenheim was explored, Wilson chose Sturm Graz to get regular senior football.
Inside the squad, there’s also a feel-good story. Amadou Onana has been acting as a big brother to teenage midfielder Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba, guiding him through his first big moments in senior football. After recent wins, Onana was seen encouraging Jimoh-Aloba to go towards the Holte End to soak in the applause from Villa fans a small moment that showed the strong bond building in the dressing room.
That connection showed on the pitch in Villa’s stunning Europa League comeback against Red Bull Salzburg on January 29, 2026. Villa looked in real trouble after going 2–0 down early in the second half following a Victor Lindelöf own goal and a strike from Moussa Yeo.
But Villa roared back. Morgan Rogers pulled one back in the 64th minute, Tyrone Mings headed in the equaliser in the 76th, and then came the fairytale moment: Jimoh-Aloba, on his European debut, came off the bench to score the winner in the 87th minute.
The result secured second place in Villa’s Europa League group and summed up the mood around the club right now smart planning off the pitch, belief on it, and a new generation starting to shine.
