Aston Villa have officially confirmed that Spanish full-back Alex Moreno has completed a permanent transfer to La Liga side Girona. The move brings an end to the 31-year-old defender’s spell in the Premier League, where he had played a pivotal role for Villa during his time at Villa Park. Moreno now returns to Spain, reuniting with a domestic league he knows well and joining a Girona side whose recent rise in Spanish football has captured widespread attention.
The news comes after weeks of speculation linking Moreno with a return to his homeland. Girona, who stunned La Liga observers last season with their breathtaking brand of attacking football and Champions League qualification, had been on the lookout for an experienced full-back to bolster their squad. Aston Villa, meanwhile, accepted the offer as part of their ongoing squad reshaping under manager Unai Emery.
Moreno’s Journey to Aston Villa
Alex Moreno first joined Aston Villa in January 2023 from Real Betis for a fee believed to be around £13 million. At the time, Villa were looking to strengthen their left side, and Moreno’s pace, crossing ability, and experience in La Liga made him an attractive option.
During his debut season in Birmingham, Moreno quickly became a key figure under Emery. His attacking intent from left-back provided Villa with balance, while his ability to adapt to the intensity of the Premier League earned him plaudits from fans and pundits alike. He played a crucial role in Villa’s resurgence, helping them climb the table and secure European football for the first time in over a decade.
However, despite flashes of brilliance, Moreno’s time in England was also affected by injuries. His availability was often limited, and with Villa competing on multiple fronts, Emery sought greater reliability in the defensive line. The arrival of other options in the squad, combined with tactical adjustments, meant Moreno was no longer guaranteed consistent minutes.
Why the Move Makes Sense
From Aston Villa’s perspective, selling Moreno now represents a strategic decision. Emery has made it clear that he wants a lean, competitive squad capable of sustaining long campaigns in the Premier League, Europa Conference League, and domestic cups. With Lucas Digne still at the club and Villa exploring younger options for the future, the decision to allow Moreno to leave on a permanent deal fits the club’s long-term vision.
For Moreno, the move is equally logical. Girona offers him a return to Spain, where the style of football and cultural environment are familiar. More importantly, he joins a team on the rise. Girona’s impressive campaign in 2023/24, which saw them defy the odds to finish in the top four, has positioned them as one of the most exciting clubs in Europe. Moreno’s experience in both La Liga and the Premier League will be invaluable as the Catalan side prepares for the challenges of competing domestically and in the UEFA Champions League.
Girona’s Ambition
The acquisition of Moreno underscores Girona’s ambition. Owned by the City Football Group, which also controls Manchester City, Girona are determined to consolidate their status as a top-tier Spanish club. Last season’s attacking flair, spearheaded by players like Artem Dovbyk and Viktor Tsygankov, earned them global admiration. But as they step into Europe’s elite competition, the need for squad depth and experience is vital.
Moreno fits this bill perfectly. His attacking runs, defensive discipline, and adaptability make him a strong addition. Girona’s manager, Míchel, has emphasized the importance of adding players who understand both defensive responsibility and the attacking transitions that define their game. Moreno, with his La Liga background at Real Betis and Rayo Vallecano, along with his Premier League experience, offers exactly that.
Reaction from Fans and Club
Villa fans have expressed mixed emotions following the confirmation of Moreno’s departure. While many appreciated his contributions during his stay—particularly his role in helping the club qualify for European football—others recognize that the move benefits both parties. The player gets a fresh challenge in familiar territory, while Villa open up resources and squad space for Emery’s project.
Girona supporters, on the other hand, are buzzing with excitement. Moreno’s signing signals intent, reinforcing the belief that the club is not merely a one-season wonder but serious about competing at the highest level. His arrival adds another layer of depth and quality to a team already brimming with confidence.
What’s Next for Aston Villa?
For Aston Villa, the focus now turns to building on their momentum from last season. With European commitments, Emery will be keen to ensure his squad is robust enough to handle the demands of playing every three days. The sale of Moreno could pave the way for reinvestment in younger talents or in strengthening other key areas of the squad.
Lucas Digne is expected to remain Villa’s first-choice left-back, but there have been whispers of the club scouting additional cover. Villa’s transfer strategy has so far reflected Emery’s emphasis on tactical flexibility, and any replacement for Moreno will likely fit that mold.
Moreno’s Personal Chapter
For Alex Moreno, this move marks both a return home and a new adventure. At 31, he is in the latter stages of his career, but his energy, experience, and determination remain high. Playing in the Champions League for Girona will be a personal milestone, adding to a career that has already seen him compete at the highest levels in Spain and England.
He leaves Aston Villa with his head held high, having contributed to a key transitional period in the club’s modern history. His professionalism and adaptability will be remembered fondly, even if his time at Villa Park was relatively short.
Conclusion
Alex Moreno’s permanent transfer from Aston Villa to Girona encapsulates the dynamic nature of modern football. For Villa, it’s a strategic decision to evolve under Emery’s vision. For Girona, it’s a statement of intent as they prepare to test themselves among Europe’s elite. And for Moreno, it’s both a homecoming and an opportunity to add another exciting chapter to his career.
In football, timing is everything. And for Alex Moreno, Aston Villa, and Girona, this moment feels just right.
