João Gomes Shines in…

João Gomes Shines in…

New addition João Gomes made his debut for Aston Villa during a convincing 5-0 victory against Walsall, kicking off their preseason campaign in style.

Unai Emery utilized a mix of established players and fresh talent, making 10 changes at the half.

The standout performer in the first half was 17-year-old Brian Madjo, who scored a brace, including a clever opening goal from a cross delivered by Kosta Nedeljković.

The Villans doubled their lead when George Hemmings slotted the ball past the keeper into the bottom right corner following an impressive run into the box.

Two minutes later, an effort from Emiliano Buendía deflected off Madjo but fell right back to him, allowing him to score from close range.

Gomes, who joined Villa from Wolves for £34 million ($40m) earlier this week, played the first 45 minutes in claret after Emery made substitutions at half-time.

Luka Lynch then saw his deflected shot find the net, before Aidan Borland scored a stunning goal from the edge of the area, curling it with the outside of his right foot into the bottom left corner.

Morgan Rogers secures record move from Aston Villa to Chelsea
ESPN’s selection of preseason friendlies – major summer matchups
Aston Villa reportedly bids for Alejandro Garnacho’s loan from Chelsea

Although Tai Sodje threatened to score for the hosts from a corner, Walsall struggled to keep up in a match where both teams gained important match experience in the West Midlands.

Shortly after the match concluded, it was announced that Morgan Rogers had completed a staggering £117 million ($157.28m) transfer to Chelsea.

Walsall will next face AFC Telford ahead of the League Two season, while Aston Villa will travel to Estádio do Dragão to take on Porto.