Harvey Elliott has spoken candidly about his decision to leave Liverpool, admitting that he had to be “selfish” in choosing to move on.
The 22-year-old midfielder joined Aston Villa on loan on deadline day, with the deal set to become permanent for £35m once he makes 10 appearances for Unai Emery’s side (The Athletic). He had already shared an emotional farewell message to Liverpool fans on social media, but has now explained that the move was driven by his desire for more consistent playing time, something he struggled to secure under Arne Slot.
Elliott Reflects on Difficult Decision
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Elliott admitted:
“It was very difficult. First of all the decision to leave and then on top of that to find the best club. There were a few difficult decisions I had to make. I had to sit down and speak to the team and go into a lot of detail, but in the end, the decision was to come here.”
He added that he cherished his time at Anfield:
“I loved every minute of it; every second, every day. I wouldn’t change it to be honest. I learned so much and experienced many things. But for me, the most important thing now is to play first-team football. I need to be in a team where I’m getting regular minutes—whether that’s starting or coming off the bench. That’s the only way I can improve.”
Love for Liverpool, Focus on Future
Elliott stressed that his affection for Liverpool remains:
“The love I have for Liverpool is always going to be there. That won’t change. I’ll still be watching and supporting them from afar. But sometimes in football you have to be selfish. I made the decision to leave because I wanted to do what’s best for me. Hopefully I can kick on now.”
Bright Future at Aston Villa?
Few Liverpool fans will hold his decision against him. At 22, regular playing time is crucial for his development, and with only seven minutes played across the Reds’ first four games this season, his chances were limited. Since moving to Villa, he has already featured for 19 minutes in a goalless draw against Everton, suggesting he will get more opportunities under Emery.
Elliott could prove vital for a Villa side struggling for goals, having failed to score in their opening four league fixtures. Liverpool supporters will wish him well, so long as his success doesn’t come at their expense. After all, his exit was handled with real class, and his talent deserves to shine.