Aston Villa announced on August 27 they signed German midfielder Leon Goretzka on a free transfer after his contract with Bayern Munich expired this summer [1, 2, 3, 4]. The 31-year-old, who has earned 73 caps for Germany, joins Villa as the club looks to strengthen a midfield depleted by recent departures [1, 2, 3, 4].
Goretzka spent eight seasons at Bayern Munich from 2018 to 2026, making 312 appearances and scoring 51 goals [1, 2, 3, 4]. During that period, he won seven Bundesliga titles and the 2020 UEFA Champions League [1, 2, 3, 4]. He also represented Germany at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, playing in three matches [1, 2, 3, 4].
Villa’s midfield faced significant changes after losing Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and Morgan Rogers to Chelsea during the summer transfer window [1, 2, 3]. The club also lost defender Ezri Konsa to Arsenal [1, 2, 3]. Villa began their 2026-27 Premier League campaign with a 4-0 defeat at Brighton on August 20 [1]. Midfielder Amadou Onana is out until next year with a knee injury sustained at the World Cup [1].
Aston Villa’s official statement expressed the club’s enthusiasm, saying, "Aston Villa is delighted to announce the signing of Leon Goretzka" [4].
Goretzka is expected to bring experience and leadership to Villa’s midfield as they prepare for upcoming league fixtures this season [1].
