Aston Villa have confirmed that goalkeeper Robin Olsen will leave the club at the end of the season.
The 35-year-old joined us in January 2022 on an initial loan before making his move permanent, but having been limited to a back-up role behind Emiliano Martinez, he has gone on to make just 21 appearances across all competitions.
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Although he hasn’t always entirely convinced, he has been an important member of the first-team squad with his ability to provide depth, while Unai Emery and his teammates have always spoken highly of him and about his presence in the group.
Olsen’s professionalism, experience and character will have all been valuable characteristics to help with our progression and development under Emery, and so he deserves plenty of praise and well wishes as he looks set for a new chapter in his career.
As per the club’s post, Olsen’s time at Villa will conclude at the end of the season, with his current contract with the club set to expire, and the award in itself says a lot about how we have valued his contribution.
It’s ultimately the sensible decision for both parties, as Villa will look to go with a younger option who can provide long-term assurances, while Olsen will surely want to enjoy a more prominent role at this stage of his career, with a return to Sweden being touted last month.
Nevertheless, from a Villa perspective, it could be a busy summer addressing our needs in the goalkeeper department, as with speculation linking Emiliano Martinez with a departure at the end of the campaign too, Emery could oversee significant changes in that area of his squad.
Perhaps the likes of Joe Gauci and Oliwier Zych will also be asked to step up in the pecking order and provide depth and competition for places, and it’s hoped that they can show that they’re ready in pre-season as we look to fill the void left behind by our Swedish stalwart.
