Yacouba Sylla Seeking Move Back to France After Limited Playing Time at Aston Villa
Aston Villa midfielder Yacouba Sylla has expressed his desire to return to France after struggling for regular playing time in the Premier League. The Ivorian, who joined the Villans in January 2013 from Clermont Foot, revealed in an interview with France Football that he is frustrated by his limited opportunities at Villa Park.
“I’m not here for tourism,” Sylla stated. “My situation isn’t that dire, I know that, but as someone who loves football, I’m not happy if I can’t express myself on the pitch every weekend.”
Since arriving in the Premier League, Sylla has made 11 appearances for Villa, five of which have been as a starter. However, with limited minutes under manager Paul Lambert, Sylla believes it is time for him to seek regular playing time elsewhere in order to continue his development.
“For my progression, it might be time to simply find some playing time elsewhere. I think I’ll go on loan next summer,” he added. “I could have already left last December, but the manager told me he was counting on me, and then he didn’t play me at all. I need playing time.”
The 24-year-old is now eyeing a return to his home country and is keen to experience Ligue 1 for the first time. He is hoping to secure a loan move to a club with a strong project where he can showcase his abilities.
“What I want is to come back to France, for a one-year loan to a good club. Time to show my qualities. That’s the goal,” Sylla said. “I’ve never experienced Ligue 1 either, so that’s something I’d be interested in.”
With the summer transfer window approaching, Sylla will be hoping for a move that will provide him with the playing time he craves, as he looks to regain his form and build upon his career.
