Harvey Elliott has spoken openly about the difficult choice he made to walk away from Liverpool this summer, admitting that he had to think “selfishly” about his career.

The 22-year-old sealed a deadline-day loan switch to Aston Villa, with the move set to become permanent for £35m once he racks up 10 appearances under Unai Emery (per The Athletic).

After posting an emotional farewell message to fans earlier this month, Elliott has now revealed the reasons behind his decision. The England U21 international confessed that his desire for regular football pushed him to leave Anfield, where he had been struggling for minutes under Arne Slot.

Reflecting on the move, he told the Liverpool Echo:

> “It wasn’t easy at all — first, deciding to leave, and then choosing where to go. I had to sit down, weigh up the options, and think carefully. In the end, the choice was Aston Villa.”

Elliott added that his time with Liverpool meant everything to him:

> “I enjoyed every second there. I wouldn’t trade the memories or lessons I gained. But at this stage, the priority is playing week in, week out. That’s the only way I can continue to grow.”

The midfielder also made it clear that his affection for the Reds won’t fade:

> “My love for Liverpool will never change. I’ll always support them, but in football sometimes you have to put yourself first. I left because I felt it was the best step for my future.”

Since making the switch, Elliott has already had more involvement than he managed in the early weeks of the season at Anfield. After featuring for 19 minutes in Villa’s draw against Everton, the youngster seems poised to have a more prominent role under Emery.

Liverpool fans may be disappointed to see him go, but many will understand why he felt the need to move on. Elliott departs Anfield with class, carrying the experience he gained on Merseyside into the next chapter of his career in the Midlands.