Ibrahim Mbaye remains without Aston Villa minutes after two call-ups

Senegal striker Ibrahim Mbaye is still waiting to make his Aston Villa debut after remaining an unused substitute in Tuesday’s 3-2 Champions League victory over Club Brugge.

Mbaye was included in Unai Emery’s squad for the second time since joining Aston Villa from Paris Saint-Germain on 1 September, but the young forward was again unable to get onto the pitch.

The 18-year-old had previously been named among the substitutes for Saturday’s match against Hull City. He did not feature in that game and was once again left waiting for his opportunity when Villa travelled to Bruges.

Emery made several changes during the Champions League match as Aston Villa secured a 3-2 win. Ross Barkley, Lamare Bogarde and Alysson were introduced in the 68th minute, while Tammy Abraham came on for Nicolas Jackson 13 minutes later.

Despite making four substitutions, Emery did not turn to Mbaye, who remained on the bench until the final whistle.

The Senegalese forward must now wait longer for his first appearance in an Aston Villa shirt after making the move from PSG during the final hours of the transfer window.

His arrival has placed him in an attacking group where competition for places is particularly strong. The young striker will therefore need to convince Emery that he is ready to contribute as he adapts to his new surroundings.

Mbaye has now been included in two matchday squads since arriving at Villa, but neither opportunity has resulted in competitive minutes.

His latest omission came despite Aston Villa making several changes during the match, meaning the Senegal international was unable to take advantage of the opportunities created by the substitutions.

For the young forward, the immediate challenge is to remain patient while working towards earning the confidence of his new manager.

Having only recently completed his move from PSG, Mbaye is still at the beginning of his Aston Villa journey. However, with competition for attacking positions fierce, establishing himself in Emery’s plans will be important if he is to end his wait for a debut.

The 3-2 victory in Bruges gave Aston Villa another positive result, but for Mbaye, the night ended in familiar fashion.

After two consecutive call-ups without making an appearance, the Senegalese striker remains on the sidelines and is still waiting for his first minutes in an Aston Villa shirt.

His opportunity will now have to come in another match as he continues his efforts to earn a place in Emery’s plans.