Leon Bailey targets 2025 resurgence to power Aston Villa's Champions League charge

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·6. Januar 2025

Leon Bailey targets 2025 resurgence to power Aston Villa's Champions League charge

Leon Bailey has pledged to recapture the exceptional form that made him a key player in the club's Champions League qualification pursuit last season. The 27-year-old Jamaican star, who lit up the Premier League during the 2023-24 campaign, is now laser-focussed on moving past his injury concerns and finding his rhythm to help Villa secure a coveted top-four spot.

Injury struggles and confidence issues

Bailey's journey through the 2024-25 season has been particularly challenging, with three separate injuries hampering his progress. Two hamstring setbacks and a groin strain have disrupted his momentum, forcing him to spend significant time on the sidelines. The winger openly discussed how these setbacks affected his mental state, acknowledging the universal challenge faced by players returning from injury. Bailey revealed,

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"When players suffer injuries and keep coming back, their confidence naturally drops. No one returns from an injury brimming with confidence—it takes time. I've had three injuries this season, but I'm back now, and that's what matters."

Despite these challenges, his determination shines through in his 23 appearances this season. The speedster has continued to push himself, sometimes perhaps too intensely, in his eagerness to contribute. He explained,

"Sometimes I push myself too much, but I've been showing up for the team, and I'll always try to be ready when the coach needs me."

Turning point in 2025

A recent match against Leicester City marked a crucial moment in Bailey's season when he found the back of the net, breaking his goal-scoring drought. The well-crafted goal, assisted by Ian Maatsen, not only secured a vital 2-1 win but also marked a personal milestone. "Scoring that goal was a relief. It's one of the hardest things to get off the mark, and now that I've done it, I hope things can change. Hopefully, 2025 is my year," Bailey expressed.

With Villa currently four points behind fourth-placed Chelsea, the race for Champions League qualification remains wide open. Bailey pointed out the team's consistency, stating,

"Sometimes teams do well one season and completely drop off the next. That hasn't happened to us. We're still in the race, competing for those European spots."

Aiming higher for the season

The previous season saw Bailey at his peak, contributing 14 goals and 14 assists across all competitions. While acknowledging a slower start under Unai Emery this season, he maintains a positive outlook. "We've had a tough first half of the season, but we are still here, showing character and fighting for points. The manager and my teammates have been supportive, which helps build confidence," he shared.

Looking ahead to the final four months of the season, Bailey's priority is clear: maintain fitness and deliver consistently. "I've been unfortunate so far, but that's football. My focus now is on staying fit, racking up goals and assists, and helping the team as much as I can," he stated, embodying his commitment to Villa's Champions League ambitions.