Villa are in action this morning against Elche CF in a friendly arranged to keep non-international players match sharp.

Brian Madjo could offer Aston Villa supporters an early look at his abilities after being included on the substitutes’ bench for the friendly with Elche.
The £10m recruit from Metz, signed in January, has yet to appear in a competitive match because of ongoing registration complications.

However, he has been named in the squad for this morning’s encounter, with Villa keen to give minutes to players not currently away on international duty.
According to The Athletic, FIFA is still preventing Villa from finalising Madjo’s registration.

Madjo, who will not turn 18 until January 2027, falls under Article 19 of FIFA regulations, which restricts international transfers involving players under the age of 18.
Although he was born in England, the issue stems from his move from an overseas club.

Deals involving youth players from abroad have become more complicated since the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union in 2020, as English clubs no longer benefit from EU exemptions when signing foreign youngsters.

Despite the obstacles, the striker has been training at Bodymoor Heath and is gradually being introduced to the senior setup.
Madjo has recently featured for England’s Under-17 side after previously appearing for Luxembourg’s senior national team.

Villa’s starting XI against Elche: Marco Bizot, Andres Garcia, Tyrone Mings, Pau Torres, Ian Maatsen, Ross Barkley, Douglas Luiz, Jadon Sancho, Harvey Elliott, Emi Buendia and Tammy Abraham.
Substitutes: James Wright, Owen Asamoto, Ollie Watkins, Brian Madjo, Yeimar Mosquera, Trai-Varn Mulley, TJ Carroll, Ashton McWilliams, Luka Lynch, Mohamed Kone, Woody Burgess, Max Jenner.