Aston Villa’s Rising Star: Could Louie Barry Be the Next Jack Grealish?

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has been busy strengthening his squad, most recently with the £21 million signing of Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund. However, an even more exciting prospect may be emerging from within the club’s own ranks.

Young attacker Louie Barry has returned from a successful loan spell at Stockport County, where he scored 16 goals in the first half of the season. Despite interest from Celtic and Lens, Emery has opted to keep Barry at Villa Park and potentially integrate him into the first team.

The similarities between Barry and former Villa star Jack Grealish are striking. Both players prefer operating on the left wing and cut their teeth with loan spells in the lower leagues early in their careers. Grealish’s stint at Notts County in 2013/14 saw him rack up 12 goal contributions in League One before breaking into Villa’s Premier League side the following season.

Barry’s loan at Stockport County this term has been equally impressive. In addition to his 16 goals, he provided 3 assists, created 5 big chances, and averaged 1 key pass and 2.3 successful dribbles per game in League One. His technique has drawn praise from pundits, with Michael Dawson describing a goal against Cambridge United as “unbelievable”.

While Morgan Rogers is currently thriving in Villa’s first team, Barry’s potential means he cannot be ignored. If given opportunities in the Premier League this season, he could be set for a breakout 2025/26 campaign.

Emery’s decision to retain Barry despite outside interest shows the club’s faith in his abilities. With the right development, Barry has all the tools to follow in Grealish’s footsteps and become Villa’s next homegrown star. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether he can live up to that lofty potential.