Alejandro Garnacho has discussed his decision to leave Chelsea and said the chance to play Champions League football was a factor in his move to Aston Villa.
Garnacho has joined Aston Villa on a season-long loan deal from Chelsea after a frustrating 12 months at Stamford Bridge.
The Argentine moved to Chelsea from Manchester United in a £40m deal last summer, but struggled to secure a regular role in the side.
After making his first appearance for Aston Villa in pre-season, Garnacho took to social media to express his happiness at ‘enjoying football’ again.
He wrote on Instagram: “See you soon Bangkok. First start after three months. Happy to be enjoying football again. One per cent every day. Thanks Indonesia!”
In his first interview since arriving at Villa Park, Garnacho said he is excited about playing in Europe this season. Chelsea missed out on European qualification after a disappointing Premier League campaign last term.
“I think it’s also important to play European competitions,” he said. “I was looking for a club to get confidence and try to be the player that I was like years ago from my first years ago at Manchester United.
“Joining to play in the Champions League also is important to be part of this and Champions League is the best. We’re going to play it this season. I’m really happy and hopefully we can do something important.”