Harwood-Bellis reportedly left out of Aston Villa Champions League squad | OneFootball

Taylor Harwood-Bellis has reportedly been omitted from Aston Villa’s Champions League squad for the league phase, according to Daily Echo.

The centre-back completed a move from Saints earlier this week in a deal worth an initial £25 million, with a further £5 million in potential add-ons.

Saints head coach Tonda Eckert said the chance to play in Europe’s premier competition was a major motivation for Harwood-Bellis making the switch. The former Manchester City defender also referenced it in his first Villa interview. However, he was not included in the 23-man list submitted to UEFA.

Villa named nine summer signings, with Harwood-Bellis joined on the sidelines by centre-back Modou Keba Cisse and striker Brian Madjo.

He could still feature later in the campaign if Villa reach the knockout stage, as clubs can register up to three new players. A long-term injury to one of Villa’s outfield players could also create an opening.

Villa begin away to Club Brugge, then host Fenerbahce and Viking FK. They will also face Galatasaray, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund and Slavia Prague as they hope to reach the second round.

Source: Daily Echo

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