Aston Villa season preview, Joao Gomes message, Lucas Digne farewell

The Guardian’s Premier League season preview highlights the challenges facing Aston Villa after their Europa League triumph. Unai Emery’s side, predicted to finish seventh, have seen key departures including Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne, while Ezri Konsa could follow if Arsenal make a serious bid. New signings João Gomes, Johan Manzambi and Alejandro Garnacho will need to make an immediate impact as Villa aim to secure consecutive Champions League qualifications.

João Gomes has thanked Villa fans and players for their warm welcome after his £35m move from Wolves. The Brazilian midfielder, who is expected to start against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup, posted a message on social media expressing his gratitude and hopes to contribute to Villa’s ‘winning story’.

Lucas Digne has bid an emotional farewell to Villa after completing an £8.5m move to PSG. The left-back, who made 182 appearances for Villa, shared a heartfelt video message on Instagram, thanking fans for their support and recalling the ‘unforgettable moments’ of his four-year spell, including the Europa League triumph.

According to the Birmingham Mail, Villa are set for a financial boost from the UEFA Super Cup, with the winners receiving €5m (£4.3m) and the runners-up €4m (£3.4m). The club are also monitoring Real Madrid forward Endrick’s situation, with a potential loan move being explored.

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