Frederic Guilbert believes he will not return to Premier League giants Aston Villa despite his excellent form on loan at Ligue 1 high-flyers Strasbourg, speaking via Girondins4Ever.
If an Aston Villa side containing mercurial talents such as Philippe Coutinho, Danny Ings, Leon Bailey and Ollie Watkins are performing below expectations this season, then the same certainly cannot be said of Strasbourg.
While Steven Gerrard struggles to get a consistent tune out of a high-quality group of players at Bodymoor Heath, the fact that Strasbourg are still in contention for a Champions League place is a testament to the remarkable work done by former Rennes coach Julien Stephan.
The Alsace outfit finished 15th in Ligue 1 12 months ago after all. What’s more, Strasbourg have not graced European competition since being knocked out of the 2005/06 UEFA Cup by Basel.
No wonder Guilbert is excited about what the future may hold.
“I’m concentrating on what I have to do,” says Guilbert. “And if we can achieve something, perhaps not historic but very rare in view of recent years, it would be interesting, collectively and individually.”
Has Guilbert played his last game for Aston Villa?
Guilbert, a £5 million signing from Caen back in 2019, joined Strasbourg on loan after losing his place to Matty Cash at Villa Park.
According to the Birmingham Mail, Gerrard will not stand in the 27-year-old’s way if he wishes to bring a permanent end to his time in claret-and-blue, particularly after Cash put an end to speculation over his future by signing a new long-term deal.
“Is there a chance that I will stay at Strasbourg next season? I’m more likely to stay in Alsace than go back to England!” Guilbert adds. “For now, there has been no discussion between Aston Villa and me, or between Strasbourg and me.
“Today, I’m serene, quiet. I’m doing my thing and we’ll see where it takes me. I feel good at Strasbourg but there are many factors to take into account.
“As long as there are no talks or particular progress between the two clubs, I do not ask myself the question. But it will change this summer, that’s for sure.”
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Guilbert, an attack-minded, adventurous right-back who turned down a move to Fulham last year, has five assists and one goal for Strasbourg this season.
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