Alex Moreno Completes Move to Forest
Alex Moreno has completed his loan move to Nottingham Forest. The 31-year-old full-back joined Aston Villa in January 2023 and revitalised Villa’s left flank, combining well with both Jacob Ramsey and Emi Buendía. He played a crucial role in Villa’s late surge up the Premier League table, helping the team qualify for European football.
Unfortunately, toward the end of the season, Moreno suffered a hamstring injury during Villa’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool, which sidelined him until November of the following season.
Upon his return, he struggled to regain his form, and Lucas Digne’s improved performances at left-back made it even harder for Moreno to reclaim his place in the team.
Last season, Moreno made 29 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals as Villa reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa Conference League and finished fourth in the Premier League. Remarkably, he scored more goals than 97% of left-backs, underscoring his ability to contribute offensively—a key strength in his game.
With Villa recently investing heavily in 22-year-old Ian Maatsen, it became likely that Moreno would be moved on this season. In contrast, Lucas Digne, also 31, remains on higher wages, making a transfer for him more difficult. Additionally, Maatsen, fresh from a Champions League final with Borussia Dortmund, shares a similar playing style to Moreno, further pushing the Spanish full-back down the pecking order.
Life After This Season
After his Forest loan, Moreno will have a season left on his Villa contract, but the Nottingham club have a buy option in place. Having battled relegation the past couple of seasons, whether Forest stay up again may play a part in Moreno’s future next year though.
The former Real Betis player was well-liked by both teammates and fans at Villa. He will be missed and departs to a club that should fit him well, with our best wishes.
UTV
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