Aston Villa’s position on Brian Madjo after Walsall brace | OneFootball

Aston Villa are still waiting to learn if they can register Brian Madjo for the new season after the 17-year-old struck twice in a 5-0 friendly win at Walsall.

According to ExpressAndStar.com, Fifa blocked the striker’s registration under rules on international transfers for under-18s, leaving him eligible only for friendlies while the club await a Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling after a hearing this month. Without a successful appeal, he cannot play competitively until his next birthday in January 2027.

Madjo joined from Metz in January for £10million and Tuesday was his first public outing. Villa argue he should be exempt as he was born in London and has represented England at youth level. He has also been capped three times by Luxembourg at senior level.

He showcased power and poise, first meeting Kosta Nedeljkovic’s 24th-minute cross to beat goalkeeper Jed Ward. On the stroke of half-time he reacted quickest after Emi Buendia’s shot deflected into his path.

His goals came either side of a George Hemmings strike as Villa eased to victory. Luka Lynch and Aidan Borland added second-half efforts, with all three prospects candidates for loans later in the window.

Unai Emery is leaning on youngsters while many seniors complete World Cup breaks. John McGinn, Victor Lindelof and Evann Guessand are not expected back until before the Far East tour. Ollie Watkins, Ezri Konsa and Emi Martinez are unlikely to return until the week of the European Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain on August 12.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com